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Susanna and the Elders

Plaquette
1550-1575 (made)
Artist/Maker
Place of origin

For some sculptural commissions, a leading artist such as Giambologna made only the model and the work was executed by others. Ideas were also transmitted by terracotta models, plaquettes and engravings, as well as by decorative objects for which sculptors had provided designs.This plaquette was made as a casting model or design for an enamelled Renaissance jewel. The composition was originally carved in wood and was then disseminated by copies cast in lead and bronze and intended for use by craftsmen.

Object details

Categories
Object type
TitleSusanna and the Elders (generic title)
Materials and techniques
Bronze
Brief description
Plaquette, bronze, of Susanna and the Elders, German (Nuremburg), 1550-75
Physical description
Plaquette in bronze. In the centre is a rectangular panel with Susannah under a tree beside the fountain between the two Elders. On each side are allegorical figures, one of Faith with a cross and chalice; above and below are busts in medallions, linked up with scrolls and volutes. Reddish borwn patina.
Dimensions
  • Maximum height: 8cm
  • Maximum width: 4.15cm
Credit line
Salting Bequest
Object history
From the Salting bequest.
Subjects depicted
Summary
For some sculptural commissions, a leading artist such as Giambologna made only the model and the work was executed by others. Ideas were also transmitted by terracotta models, plaquettes and engravings, as well as by decorative objects for which sculptors had provided designs.This plaquette was made as a casting model or design for an enamelled Renaissance jewel. The composition was originally carved in wood and was then disseminated by copies cast in lead and bronze and intended for use by craftsmen.
Bibliographic references
  • 'Salting Bequest (A. 70 to A. 1029-1910) / Murray Bequest (A. 1030 to A. 1096-1910)'. In: List of Works of Art Acquired by the Victoria and Albert Museum (Department of Architecture and Sculpture). London: Printed under the Authority of his Majesty's Stationery Office, by Eyre and Spottiswoode, Limited, East Harding Street, EC, p. 79
  • Weber, I. Deutsche, Niederländische und Französische Renaissance Plaketten. Munich, 1975, p. 283, no 641
Collection
Accession number
A.493-1910

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Record createdJanuary 6, 2004
Record URL
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