Empress Maria 1575

This bronze medal of Empress Maria was created in 1565 by the Italian artist Antonio Abondio. It's a fascinating example of how art was used to project power and status during the Renaissance. The medal operates through visual codes familiar to its time. The profile view is reminiscent of Roman imperial portraiture, associating Maria with the authority of antiquity. Her elaborate clothing signifies wealth and status. The Latin inscription, "Maria Imperatrix," leaves no doubt about her position. Made in the context of the Habsburg dynasty, this medal reflects the family's efforts to cultivate an image of themselves as divinely ordained rulers. It’s important to remember that portraiture of this kind wasn't just about likeness; it was a carefully constructed performance of power. To truly understand this medal, we can examine letters, diaries, and state records that would reveal the political and social context in which Abondio was working and the kind of message the Habsburgs were trying to convey. These resources help us understand the politics of imagery.