Saint John the Baptist

Antonio Pollaiuolo

probably ca. 1460–80 · Partly enameled gold set with diamonds and pearls · European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Hat badges, or enseignes, widely worn by fashion-conscious Renaissance men, were often emblematic in subject. The patron saint of Florence is depicted on this one. Tiny metal loops are attached to the reverse so that the badge could be sewn to the hat.

Artist

Antonio Pollaiuolo

Date

probably ca. 1460–80

Medium

Partly enameled gold set with diamonds and pearls

Culture

Italian, Florence

Department

European Sculpture and Decorative Arts

Credit line

Gift of J. Pierpont Morgan, 1917