Marco Mantova Benavides, 1489-1582, Lawyer and Collector [obverse] c. 1565

This bronze medal portrays Marco Mantova Benavides and was crafted by Martino da Bergamo. The circular form, with its contained and self-referential nature, immediately draws our attention to the profile of Benavides, rendered in meticulous detail. The artist uses the language of classical portraiture to convey status and intellect. Look closely at the incised lettering which encircles the portrait, framing Benavides within a textual boundary that underscores his identity and accomplishments. The use of Latin is no accident, signaling the revival of classical ideals during the Renaissance. Consider how the materiality of the bronze itself contributes to the meaning. The cool, hard metal lends a sense of permanence and gravitas, aligning Benavides with the enduring legacy of Roman emperors and philosophers immortalized in bronze. This medal is not just a portrait; it's a carefully constructed statement about identity, status, and the enduring power of classical ideals in Renaissance society.