Albert III, 1443-1500, Duke of Saxony [obverse] possibly 18th or 19th century

This silver medal portraying Albert III, Duke of Saxony, was created by E. U., an artist active in the 18th and 19th centuries. The medal revives Renaissance traditions of portraiture, reflecting a historical interest in powerful rulers and classical aesthetics. Albert III, who lived from 1443 to 1500, is depicted in profile, a style that recalls ancient Roman coins and medals used to immortalize emperors and leaders. The inscription "ALBERTUS ANIMOSUS" frames the Duke’s image, underscoring the importance of his character. The medal serves not only as a portrait but also as a symbol of status and historical memory. It invites us to reflect on the ways in which power is constructed, remembered, and reinterpreted across different historical moments. How do the artistic choices in this medal shape our understanding of the Duke and his legacy?