Cardinal Fabio Mignanelli 1546 - 1562

This medal of Cardinal Fabio Mignanelli was made in Italy in the mid-16th century by Giovanni Zacchi. Medals like this one had an important role in shaping the public image of powerful figures. The portrait shows the Cardinal in profile, a format that evokes ancient Roman coins, associating him with the power and authority of the classical world. The inscription around the edge gives his name and title, reinforcing his status within the Catholic Church. On the other side, we see a depiction of the imperial family. It's a reminder of the close relationship between the Church and the ruling dynasties of Europe at this time. The medal thus served as a kind of propaganda, reinforcing the Cardinal's position within a complex web of social, religious, and political institutions. To fully understand the medal's significance, we need to look at sources, such as letters, diaries, and administrative records. These can help us to understand how it was used, who saw it, and what meanings it conveyed in its own time.