Pope Alexander VII 17th century

This is a bronze medal of Pope Alexander VII, made by Gasparo Morone. Although the exact date of creation is unknown, Morone lived from 1569 to 1669, embedding this piece within the socio-political context of early modern Europe. The medal presents Pope Alexander VII in profile, adorned with the papal tiara, symbolizing his spiritual and temporal power. Within this representation of papal authority, issues of religious identity and power dynamics are at play. Consider the history of the papacy, often intertwined with political maneuvering and cultural influence. The medal serves not only as a portrait, but also as a marker of the Catholic Church's presence in a rapidly changing world. It invites us to reflect on the intersections of religious authority, artistic representation, and the historical forces shaping identity.