Mary Tudor, Queen of England (1516-1558, r. 1553, m. 1554), Commemorating her Marriage to Philip of Spain (1527-1598, r. 1556-98) 1550 - 1560

This small, silver medal by Jacopo Nizzola da Trezzo depicts Mary I, Queen of England, in profile wearing a richly patterned gown and a jeweled necklace. The inscription around the edge reads “MARIA ANGLERAE ET HIB FID DEFE[NSAT]RIX,” meaning “Mary, Defender of the Faith of England and Ireland.” Created in the mid-16th century, this medal commemorates Mary’s marriage to Philip of Spain in 1554. It is a prime example of Renaissance medallic art, which often celebrated important historical events or figures.