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Mehmed II, Sultan of Turkey

Bertoldo di Giovanni, c. 1480–1481

British Museum, London

This bronze medal, one of three bequeathed to the British Museum, depicts a bust-length profile of Mehmed II, Sultan of Turkey (1432-81). The reverse of the medal commemorates his conquests in Greece, Trebizond and Asia, which are personified by three bound women riding in a chariot led by the Sultan himself. He holds a small figure, probably symbolizing Victory. The chariot itself is drawn by two horses led by the figure of Mars, god of war. The reclining male figure below holding a trident represents the sea, and the woman with a cornucopia, the earth.

More information

Title of artwork, date

Mehmed II, Sultan of Turkey, c. 1480–1481

Date supported

1919

Medium and material

Bronze

Dimensions

Diameter: 9.3 cm

Gifted by

Henry Van den Bergh

Content note: This object record is part of our archive and has not been updated since it was first published. It may contain inaccurate information or outdated language. Please get in touch if you think this record should be amended.

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