Robert-Joseph Pothier, 1699-1772, Jurist and Professor [obverse] 1823

This bronze medal portraying Robert-Joseph Pothier, the noted 18th-century jurist, was created by Mathias-Nicholas-Marie Vivier. The copper alloy has been carefully cast, likely using a mold created from a master model. A close look reveals the textures of Pothier's wig and clerical collar, all finely wrought in relief. The inscription around the portrait is crisp and clear. Bronze medals like this one served as both commemorative objects and as tools of reputation-building. The production of such medals involved multiple skilled artisans. From the initial design and model-making to the casting and finishing, each stage required specialized expertise. The medal's existence speaks to the economic and social structures of its time, where skilled labor and artistic patronage intersected. Considering the material and making of this medal allows us to appreciate not only the artistry involved, but also the broader cultural and economic context in which it was produced. It’s a reminder that even seemingly simple objects can tell complex stories about society.