Martinus de Hanna 1520 - 1555

This bronze portrait medal of Martinus de Hanna was made by Leone Leoni in the 16th century. Medals like this, produced in Italy during the Renaissance, were often commissioned to commemorate individuals and events, serving as a form of personal branding and historical record. The production of such medals reflects the socio-economic structures of the time. Leoni, as an artist, depended on patronage from wealthy elites. This medal not only immortalizes Martinus de Hanna but also implicitly speaks to his status and the values of the society that celebrated him. The choice of bronze, a material valued for its durability and aesthetic appeal, aligns with the Renaissance fascination with classical antiquity and the desire to emulate the artistic achievements of the past. Understanding the full significance of this medal involves delving into the archival records of the period, exploring the networks of patronage, and examining the artistic conventions that shaped its creation. The medal provides us with a tangible link to the cultural and institutional history of the Renaissance.