Pope Innocent XI thumbnail 1
Not currently on display at the V&A

Pope Innocent XI

Medallion
ca. 1679 - ca. 1689 (made)
Artist/Maker
Place of origin

This portrait of Pope Innocent XI (1611-1689; Pope 1676-89) is similar to that shown on the 1679 bronze medal by Giovanni Hamerani (1646-1705), although on the medal the Pope is shown with full papal vestments and with longer hair; in addition his abbreviated name is given as 'INNOCEN' with two 'n's (examples are in the present collection, including inv. no. 1247-1893, and at the British Museum and elsewhere). An ivory version was sold at Rosebery's, London (Ted Few sale) on 24 March, 2021, lot 92.
The virtuoso skill seen here, whereby a figurative portrait is created using only the technique of turning, was greatly admired in the seventeenth century.


Object details

Categories
Object type
TitlePope Innocent XI (generic title)
Materials and techniques
Turned ivory
Brief description
Medallion, ivory, Pope Innocent XI, by an anonymous ivory turner, probably after Giovanni Hamerani, Italian, ca. 1679-89
Physical description
The turned portrait is set within an integral turned frame. The bust faces right, and the Pope is shown bearded wearing a cap. The medallion is inscribed.
Dimensions
  • Diameter: 11.2cm
Marks and inscriptions
'INOCEN: XI . PONT. MAX .' (on the medallion)
Translation
'Pope Innocent XI'
Credit line
Given by Dr W.L. Hildburgh FSA.
Object history
Given by Dr W.L. Hildburgh F.S.A. in 1949; formerly on loan from Dr Hildburgh.
Subject depicted
Summary
This portrait of Pope Innocent XI (1611-1689; Pope 1676-89) is similar to that shown on the 1679 bronze medal by Giovanni Hamerani (1646-1705), although on the medal the Pope is shown with full papal vestments and with longer hair; in addition his abbreviated name is given as 'INNOCEN' with two 'n's (examples are in the present collection, including inv. no. 1247-1893, and at the British Museum and elsewhere). An ivory version was sold at Rosebery's, London (Ted Few sale) on 24 March, 2021, lot 92.
The virtuoso skill seen here, whereby a figurative portrait is created using only the technique of turning, was greatly admired in the seventeenth century.
Bibliographic reference
Trusted, Marjorie, Baroque & Later Ivories, Victoria & Albert Museum, London, 2013, cat. no. 293, pp. 300, 1
Collection
Accession number
A.29-1949

About this object record

Explore the Collections contains over a million catalogue records, and over half a million images. It is a working database that includes information compiled over the life of the museum. Some of our records may contain offensive and discriminatory language, or reflect outdated ideas, practice and analysis. We are committed to addressing these issues, and to review and update our records accordingly.

You can write to us to suggest improvements to the record.

Suggest feedback

Record createdMarch 4, 2009
Record URL
Download as: JSONIIIF Manifest