Antoine, 1489-1544, Duke of Lorraine and Bar 1508 [obverse] c. early 16th century

This is a gold medal of Antoine, Duke of Lorraine and Bar, made anonymously in 1508. The material itself, gold, speaks to power and wealth, announcing Antoine’s status. Consider the process: the metal would have been heated, hammered, and then carefully engraved to create the portrait in relief. This wasn't just a job for any craftsman; it required a highly skilled goldsmith, someone familiar with die-making and the precise art of capturing a likeness in miniature. The level of detail, especially in the Duke's garments and facial features, suggests the artisan’s practiced hand. Given the cost of materials and the labor involved, this medal was likely commissioned as a diplomatic gift, or perhaps worn as a symbol of authority. Either way, it beautifully testifies to the fusion of art, craft, and political power in the Renaissance. It reminds us that even the smallest objects can carry immense cultural weight.