The Malatesta Elephant in a Meadow [reverse] c. 1453 - 1455

This bronze medal of the Malatesta Elephant in a Meadow was created by Matteo de’ Pasti in the 15th century, during the Italian Renaissance. It gives us insight into the complex intersections of power, symbolism, and cultural exchange in that era. The elephant, an exotic animal largely unknown in Europe at the time, carries multiple layers of meaning. On one level, it signifies power, strength, and even imperial authority, reflecting the ambitions of the Malatesta family, who were lords of Rimini. On another, the image of the elephant might evoke a sense of wonder and curiosity about the wider world, which speaks to the cultural fascination with the ‘exotic’ during the Renaissance. This medal is not just a celebration of power, but also an artifact that opens a window into the complex cultural and intellectual landscape of the Renaissance. It reminds us of how the era was shaped by the encounters between Europe and the rest of the world.