Concordia Holding a Lily Scepter and an Olive Branch c. 1460 - 1466

Editor: Here we have Francesco Laurana's silver relief, "Concordia Holding a Lily Scepter and an Olive Branch," created around 1460 to 1466. The silver is so beautifully tarnished; the work as a whole reads like a ghostly image of an ancient coin. What stands out to you? Curator: The imagery speaks volumes, doesn’t it? Concordia herself is a powerful symbol – but the lily scepter and the olive branch amplify that message. Consider: the lily is a classic emblem of purity, hope, and renewal, linked to royalty, while the olive branch traditionally signals peace and victory. Editor: So, it's a careful combination of power and peace? Curator: Precisely. During the Renaissance, civic harmony was everything to Italian states. So why these particular attributes to communicate the idea? Think about it. What associations come to mind when you see the pairing of peace and renewal with power? Editor: Perhaps the renewal after periods of conflict or instability, or even celebrating successful alliances? Curator: Excellent. These objects together invite contemplation. And it’s important to note Concordia is seated. Her pose lends an air of permanence. She isn't fleeting, this peace, she is to be lasting. Do you think the symbolism would resonate as powerfully if the figure were active, say, in the act of offering the olive branch? Editor: No, probably not. I hadn't considered that—I'd just taken her seated posture for granted. Curator: Consider then the function of numismatic portraiture: to fix a moment of glory for all time. And the selection of meaningful symbols to enhance the overall symbolic composition is paramount. Editor: So much is communicated by objects we often overlook. This makes me appreciate Laurana's art and thoughtfulness. Curator: Indeed. We see how skillfully combined cultural and historical emblems embody peace, purity, and enduring power in an image that truly lingers.