Medallion of Benjamin Franklin

Currently not on view

Medallion of Benjamin Franklin

1777

Jean-Baptiste Nini (Italian (active France), 1717–1786) Based on a drawing by Thomas Walpole (English, 1755–1840)

Clay medallions of Benjamin Franklin were among the earliest portraits of the statesman available in France. Their maker, Nini, worked for Jacques Donatien Le Ray de Chaumont, Franklin's pro-American landlord. Franklin sent one example to his daughter Sarah and her husband, Richard Bache, who thought the medallion a better likeness than the print by Augustin de Saint-Aubin, which Franklin also sent them.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Titles:

Medallion of Benjamin Franklin

Date:

1777

Artists:

Jean-Baptiste Nini (Italian (active France), 1717–1786) Based on a drawing by Thomas Walpole (English, 1755–1840)

Medium:

Terracotta

Dimensions:

Diameter: 5 inches (12.7 cm)

Classification:

Sculpture

Credit Line:

The Henry P. McIlhenny Collection in memory of Frances P. McIlhenny, 1986

Accession Number:

1986-26-290

Geography:

Made in Europe

We are always open to learning more about our collections and updating the website. Does this record contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? Contact us here.

Please note that this particular artwork might not be on view when you visit. Don’t worry—we have plenty of exhibitions for you to explore.

Currently not on view