CELLINI, Benvenuto
(b. 1500, Firenze, d. 1571, Firenze)

Shield for Francesco I de' Medici

c. 1570
Chased and silver-plated iron, height 76 cm
Staatliche Kunstsammlungen, Dresden

Recently a chased morion and shield, now kept in Dresden, have been attributed to Cellini and his assistants. Both the tall crested helmet and the oval shield are ceremonial objects embellished with decorative scenes. Apart from being influenced by French examples, these pieces reveal stylistic features typical of Cellini.

In the centre of the shield the head of Medusa can be seen, while the two ovals show the portrayal of Francesco de' Medici and his lover Bianca Cappello. There are also two circular scenes at the top and bottom, in which respectively the stories of David and Judith are depicted.