Commemorative medal for the 500th anniversary of Michelangelo's birth comissioned by the S. Johnson Mint, Italy, 1975

Abstract

General Description:This medalwas issued in 1975 by the S. Johnson Mint in Italy as a commemorative medal for the 500th anniversary of Michelangelo's birth.

Obverse Description: The obverse features a portrait of Michelangelo with the inscription, "MICHELANGELO BUONARROTI 1475-1564." Also inscribed is the year it was minted, 1975, and the name of the artist "M. Moltem."

Reverse Description: The reverse features a detail of the Sistine Chapel, the Creation of Adam, with the hands of Adam and God, outstretched and nearly touching. Inscribed in small print on the right middle of the medal is the name of the issuing company, "S. Johnson."

Historical Context:

Artist Biography:Mario Molteni was born in Milan, where he attended the Scuola di Arti Applicate del Castello Sforzesco. He was a painter, sculptor and medalist who worked for the Fabbrica del Duomo.

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