Charles d’Amboise

Coins

Four gold ducats of the Sforza dukes of Milan, Italy, 1450-1501. Image courtesy of British Museum.

The figures etched into these gold coins are similar to the medallion attached to Charles d’Amboise’s hat. These timeless objects, often honoring important men of their time, feature a profile—the standard pose for noblemen. D’Amboise, having associated himself with the qualities of noblemen, likely preferred this profile image of himself in his portrait as governor of Milan.