Queen Dido 16th century

"Queen Dido" is a 16th-century medal by Giovanni del Cavino, a renowned Italian medalist. The medal, housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, features a profile portrait of Dido, the legendary queen of Carthage. This small, circular piece, with its intricate detail, exemplifies the Renaissance interest in classical history and mythology, and Cavino's mastery in the art of medal making. The inscription surrounding Dido's image, "Dido Basilea," further emphasizes her royal status and the historical significance of the subject matter.