Commemorative Medal for Students at the Academy at Hanau 1884

Abstract

General Description: Voigt was responsible for designing several commemorative or prize medals and his Michelangelo medal was given as an award to art students at the Academy at Hanau starting in 1844. Voigt often signed his works C. Voigt, as in this example.

Artist Biography: Born in Berlin, Voigt was a German sculptor, medalist, and gem engraver who traveled widely and worked in Berlin, London, Paris, Rome, and Munich. In 1829 Voigt became chief engraver and first medalist to the Munich mint. From 1859 on he lived primarily in Rome. Voigt benefitted from the tutelage of Girometti, who made a Michelangelo medal in 1841 (see separate entry).

Obverse Description: The obverse bears a right side portrait of Michelangelo based on historical precedents. On either side of the portrait is the inscription MICHEL ANGELO BUONARROTI. Underneath the portrait is the signature C. VOIGT.

Reverse Description: The reverse reads DIE KURHESSISCHE ACADEMIE ZU HANAU IHREN STREBENDEN SCHULERN ZUR ANERKENNUNG, which translates to "In recognition of the aspiring students at the Hessian Academy of Hanau".