Italian commemorative medal for the 400th anniversary of Michelangelo's Birth, 1875

Abstract

General Description: The celebrations in Florence in 1875, commemorating the 400th anniversary of Michelangelo's birth, were among the most important events in the history of Michelangelo's fame and fortune. The central event was an exhibit held from September 12?14 featuring originals and reproductions of Michelangelo's works, with the statue of David, newly moved to the Accademia Gallery, at the center. Other events included processions, concerts, important publications, conferences, banquets, and more. This medal was minted in the midst of these festivities as a lasting token of the occasion.

Obverse Description: The obverse bears a right side profile portrait of Michelangelo and the inscription "MICHELANGELO BUONARROTI" in the surround along with the inscribed artist name and location, "LUIGI GORI INC. IN FIRENZE." It is a variant of the design of 1818 by Giovanni Antonio Santarelli.

Reverse Description: The reverse features the Buonarroti coat of arms with the inscription "IN MEMORIA DEL IV CENTENARIO, Firenze 1875" (In memory of the 4th Centenary, Florence 1875) in the surround.

Historical Context:

Artist Biography: Luigi Gori (1838-ca.1921) was a Florentine medalist and coin engraver trained at the Accademia. His son also worked in his shop. Gori produced the official commemorative medal of the 1875 celebrations, with designs by Giovanni Antonio Santarelli and Nicola Farnesi.

Bibliography: http://artgallery.yale.edu/collections/objects/171317 See Flaten, p.97, no. 153; who also notes Comandini, V, p. 388; Forrer II, p. 296; Milan V.4, no. 3060.