Leonello d'Este, 1407-1450, Marquess of Ferrara 1441 [obverse] c. 1443

This bronze medal, created by the renowned Italian artist Pisanello around 1443, depicts Leonello d'Este, the Marquess of Ferrara. The medal showcases Pisanello's mastery of portraiture, capturing Leonello's likeness in a realistic yet idealized manner. The inscription "Leonellus Marchio Estensis" surrounds the portrait, identifying the subject and his title. This piece is an excellent example of the Renaissance's burgeoning interest in realism and individual portraiture, as seen in the detail of Leonello's features and the inscription highlighting his status.