Paul II (Pietro Barbo, 1464-1471), Pope 1464, in Public Consistory [obverse] 1466 - 1467

This bronze medal, created by Emiliano Orfini da Foligno between 1466 and 1467, depicts Pope Paul II presiding over a public consistory. The detailed relief portrays the Pope seated on a throne, surrounded by cardinals and other dignitaries. The scene is framed by an inscription that reads "PAULUS II PONTIFEX MAXIMUS SACRUM CONSISTORIUM." The inscription, along with the central figure of the Pope, highlights the importance of the event and the power of the papacy during the Renaissance. This piece, like many other Renaissance medals, was intended to commemorate a specific event or person. The use of detailed imagery and inscription makes this a significant example of the art of medal making in 15th century Italy.