Crowned Eagle on a Mound Amid Waters [reverse] 1523

This bronze piece, "Crowned Eagle on a Mound Amid Waters," was crafted in 1523 by Maffeo Olivieri during the Italian Renaissance, a period marked by the revival of classical art and learning. The crowned eagle is a potent symbol of power and imperial authority. It rises above the mound and waters, signifying dominance over the natural world. The piece reflects the complex interplay between secular and religious authority in Renaissance Italy. The symbol of the Eagle can be traced back to ancient Rome, yet here it has been reimagined. This was an era when artists and intellectuals were re-evaluating the classical past through a Christian lens. Olivieri skillfully synthesizes these influences, crafting an image that speaks to both earthly and divine power. The medal serves not only as a symbol of authority, but also as an emotional testament to the cultural and political tensions of the time.