Nomos 5

Spain / Netherlands. Philip II. 1556-1598 . Medal (Bronze, 43mm, 40.84 g 12), A cast by an unknown artist taken from the original by G. Poggini (1518-c.1580), but re-engraved, Brussels or Spain, 1556. PHILLIPPVS.D.G.ET.CAR.V.AVG.PAT.BENIGNIT.HISP.REX.1556 Bare-headed, draped and cuirassed bust of Philip II to left, with aegis on his chest. Rev. .VT QVIESCAT. .ATLAS. (= that Atlas may rest) Hercules, with lion skin draped over his shoulders, standing facing, holding globe adorned with stars and the band of the zodiac. Cf. Attwood 1078 and NG 384 = Kress 338 (all referring to the signed type by Poggini). Pinchart 19, 1. van Loon I, p. 8, II. An attractive piece, with skillful after-cast engraving and a fine olive-brown patina. An old cast. Good very fine.

Ex Elsen 99, 28 March 2009, 2976.

The original by Poggini seems to be dated 1557; this piece has been retroactively redated to reflect Philip II’s accession to the Spanish throne. The medal was probably made in the southern Netherlands (or possibly Spain). The reverse refers to Philip’s assumption of some of the burdens of his father, Charles V. When this piece was made is uncertain, but the later 16th or 17th centuries would be reasonable.