Reference:6214 Cardinal Richelieu, 1630

Bust of Cardinal Richelieu to right, wearing the Order of the Holy Spirit.

An elaborate reverse with a chariot and the figure of Fame.

By Jean Warin.

Bronze, cast. 77 mm.

Condition: Very Fine to Extremely Fine

Notes:

The full background against which this particular version of Jean Warin's well-known medal of Cardinal Richelieu came to be made, showing the sitter wearing the Order of the Holy Spirit, is yet to be understood. The only original specimen known in this form, it is beautifully cast, with a fine, attractive patina. There are feint traces of green lacquer in the field and on the skull cap, while the varied elements of the medal, and particularly the very full and busy reverse, retain their fine detail.