VETRI, Domenico de'
(b. ca. 1480, Firenze, d. ca. 1547, Firenze)

Cosimo I de' Medici

1537-38
Cast bronze pierced in two places, diameter 4 cm
British Museum, London

This medal was probably issued shortly after Cosimo I de' Medici came to power in 1537. The obverse showing Cosimo is based on Pontormo's drawing which was the basis of a number of images by other artists, including the official sculptor of the Medici, Baccio Bandinelli, who made reliefs of the duke in profile.

The reverse shows Hercules's victory over Antaeus, a giant who was invincible as long as he touched the earth. Hercules managed to suffocate him by lifting him off the ground.




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