Fortitude Holding a Broken Column [reverse] 1449 - 1450

"Fortitude Holding a Broken Column" is a bronze medal created by Italian Renaissance artist Matteo de' Pasti in 1449-1450. The medal depicts the Roman goddess Fortitude seated on two elephants, holding a broken column, a symbol of resilience. This piece exemplifies the detailed and realistic style of the Early Renaissance, highlighting the artist's skill in representing the human form and allegorical themes. The inscription at the bottom, "M.CCCC.XLV," further emphasizes the historical context of the medal and its connection to the humanist ideas of the time.