Gian Galeazzo Manzi

Unknown

on or after 1669 · Gilt bronze with dark patinated ground · European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Although all but forgotten today, Gian Galeazzo Manzi, a professor of philosophy and medicine at the University of Bologna and a public anatomist, was famous during his lifetime for his scientific accomplishments. In 1671 during the canonization process of Catherine of Bologna (1413-1463), Manzi was among the panel of physicians who examined her body in order to establish its miraculous incorruptibility. The unknown sculptor of this medal portrays Manzi in his old age, bewigged and clothed in academic robes. The reverse shows all of Italy -- personified by the Tiber, Arno, and Po rivers – encompassed by the zodiacal arc of Manzi’s genius.

Artist

Unknown

Date

on or after 1669

Medium

Gilt bronze with dark patinated ground

Culture

Italian

Department

European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Credit line

Bequest of Mrs. Charles Wrightsman, 2019