Francesco Redi (1628–98) 1684

This bronze medal, created by Massimiliano Soldani in 1684, depicts the Italian physician and poet Francesco Redi. The medal features a detailed profile of Redi, his face turned slightly to the right, with his hair styled in the fashion of the 17th century. The inscription around the edge of the medal reads "Franciscus Redi Patritius Aretinus," which translates to "Francesco Redi, Patrician of Arezzo." The medal is a testament to the esteem in which Redi was held during his lifetime, as it was likely commissioned to commemorate his achievements in the fields of science and literature. The work is a fine example of the Renaissance-inspired medallic art of the Baroque period, and it is a significant artifact of the history of science and art.