Images(3)

Benjamin Franklin Portrait Medallion

Date1777

Engraver Jean Baptiste Nini d. 1785

OriginEurope, France, Blois, Chaumont-sur-Loire

MediumUnglazed earthenware (terra cotta)

DimensionsDiam: 113 mm

Credit LineGift of the Lasser family

Object number2008-46,131

DescriptionUnglazed earthenware portrait medallion, molded with left-facing profile bust of Benjamin Franklin wearing a beaver skin hat, an open jacket with a blouse underneath with four buttons visible, and a cravat tied around his neck. His hair flows down to the the nape of his neck from underneath the cap. The bust is encircled by "* B.FRANKLIN * / * AMERICAIN *" in relief. The medallion is dated "1777" in relief beneath the truncated shoulder of the bust. On the underside of the truncated shoulder is an imagined coat of arms for Franklin, made up of a coroneted oval cartouche resting on palm fronds. Within the cartouche is a vignette of a hand holding a rod being struck by a bolt of lightning emanating from a cloud. A hole has been bored into the back and another into the top edge of the medallion for displaying.Inscription(s)* B.FRANKLIN * / * AMERICAIN *

"1777" in relief directly under shoulder

"NINI / F 1777" impressed on underside of truncated shoulder