Allegory to Prince Francesco I de’ Medici
2nd half 16th c. | Giovanni Bologna, gen. Giambologna
A Relief by Giambologna and Its Copy The two reliefs depict the heir to the throne Francesco I de’ Medici being led by Mercury before the reclining female personification of the city of Florence. With the support of Amor, the god of commerce is linking the future prince to his capital, which will result in prosperity. Only after drawn-out endeavours Emperor Rudolf II succeeded in acquiring Giambologna’s bronze relief of which he then had a copy cast in silver.
A Relief by Giambologna and Its Copy The two reliefs depict the heir to the throne Francesco I de’ Medici being led by Mercury before the reclining female personification of the city of Florence. With the support of Amor, the god of commerce is linking the future prince to his capital, which will result in prosperity. Only after drawn-out endeavours Emperor Rudolf II succeeded in acquiring Giambologna’s bronze relief of which he then had a copy cast in silver.
Copy after:
Giovanni Bologna, gen. Giambologna (1529 Douai - 1608 Florenz) DNB
Time:
2nd half 16th c.
Object Name
Relief
Culture
Florence or Prague
Material/technology:
Silver
Dimensions:
H. 33,8 cm, B. 47,5 cm
Copyright
Kunsthistorisches Museum, Kunstkammer
Invs.
Kunstkammer, 1195