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The sculpture features two classical figures standing on either side of an ornate slab or altar, with each figure extending an arm across the slab to grip the other's hand. Both figures are draped in flowing garments. Above them, three smaller figures are depicted resting on clouds. The entire scene is enclosed within a round medallion, made of a material that resembles a bronze or copper alloy. Around the edge of the medallion are inscriptions, with the words "SALUTI" on the left and "PUBLICAE" on the right. The artistry suggests a high level of detail, typical of medallion artwork, conveying both texture and depth within its small circular frame.
National Gallery of Art · Sculpture
Allegory of Public Health, Safety, and Welfare [reverse]
Jean Mauger
- Date
- c. 1713
- Medium
- bronze
- Dimensions
- overall (diameter): 4.1 cm (1 5/8 in.) gross weight: 33.54 gr (0.074 lb.) axis: 12:00
- Classification
- Sculpture · Medal/Medallion
- Accession number
- 1997.114.21.b
- Credit line
- Gift of Lisa and Leonard Baskin
- Time span
- 1701 to 1725
- Department
- CSD
Subjects and terms
- French
- struck
- government
- allegory
- Safety
- Welfare
- Health
Provenance
Lisa and Leonard Baskin, Leeds, Massachusetts; gift 1997 to NGA.
Inscription
around circumference: SALUTI PUBLICAE.; in exergue: REGNANDI JUS MUTUO / SACRAMENTO RENISSUM. / M. DCC. XIII. (While law rules [public welfare] is returned in a reciprocal pledge)
NGA object ID 103317. Collection metadata is reproduced under CC0. This work is included because its NGA published-image record is marked open access; visitors should recheck the source record before substantial reuse.