The Pillars of Hercules [reverse] c. 1553 - 1555

Leone Leoni's "The Pillars of Hercules [reverse]" (c. 1553-1555) is a bronze medal depicting two columns, symbolizing the legendary Pillars of Hercules, a landmark marking the entrance to the Mediterranean Sea. The artwork, with its intricate detail and the symbolic imagery, is characteristic of Renaissance medallic art. It features a banner wrapped around the pillars and a sea motif at the bottom. Leoni, a renowned medalist of the Italian Renaissance, employed skilled craftsmanship to create this small-scale yet powerful representation of a significant geographical and historical landmark. The intricate detail and use of symbolism make this medal a fascinating piece of art history.