Mehmed II, Sultan of Turkey
Bertoldo di Giovanni, c. 1480–1481
This bronze medal, one of three bequeathed to the British Museum, depicts a bust-length profile of Mehmed II, Sultan of Turkey (1432-81). The reverse of the medal commemorates his conquests in Greece, Trebizond and Asia, which are personified by three bound women riding in a chariot led by the Sultan himself. He holds a small figure, probably symbolizing Victory. The chariot itself is drawn by two horses led by the figure of Mars, god of war. The reclining male figure below holding a trident represents the sea, and the woman with a cornucopia, the earth.
More information
Title of artwork, date
Mehmed II, Sultan of Turkey, c. 1480–1481
Date supported
1919
Medium and material
Bronze
Dimensions
Diameter: 9.3 cm
Gifted by
Henry Van den Bergh
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