Self-Portrait [obverse] 1458

Giovanni Boldù's "Self-Portrait [obverse]" is a bronze medal created in 1458. The piece depicts a profile portrait of the artist, aged 24, wearing a cap and cloak. The inscription surrounding the portrait reads, "IOANNES BOLDV. [sic] F. PRO / [sic] [unclear letter]NTVS [unclear letter]" which translates to "Giovanni Boldù, son of..." The inscription indicates the artwork was commissioned as a self-portrait, a genre that would become popular in the following centuries. The medal's size and its inscription suggest it may have been intended as a personal token or gift.