Restoration of Popery 1554

This small bronze medal, created by the Italian artist Giovanni del Cavino in 1554, depicts a profile portrait of Pope Paul III. The medal, which is now part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's collection, is a fine example of the Renaissance period's interest in portraiture and historical figures. Cavino's detailed work captures the Pope's likeness with great precision, making this a valuable historical artifact. The inscription on the medal, "PON MAX," is an abbreviation of "Pontifex Maximus," which translates to "Supreme Pontiff" and was a title used by Roman emperors and later by Popes. The medal is a testament to Cavino's skill as a medalist and a reminder of the importance of portraiture in the Renaissance.