Made for Duke Moritz of Saxony, the Trinity Medal is from the German Renaissance. The obverse depicts the three figures of the Trinity: God, enthroned and holding a sceptre and orb, above the Holy Dove and the crucified Christ. There is also a biblical inscription. The reverse depicts angels supporting a tablet inscribed with verses from the Athanasian Creed, emphasising the unity between the Catholic and Protestant churches. The Duke, himself, was converted to Protestantism, but was eager not to alienate the Catholic Holy Roman Emperor, in whose gift was the Electorship of Saxony.
More information
Title of artwork, date
The Trinity Medal, 1544
Date supported
1908
Medium and material
Cast, chased & soldered silver
Dimensions
10.2 cm
Grant
175
Total cost
175
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