Antonio Di Puccio Pisano (Pisanello); John VIII Paleologus (1392-1448); Emperor of Constantinople 1425-1448; ca. 1438 (aftercast); bronze; 3 7/8 in. (9.84 cm); Pisanello; a trained painter; combined his interest in classical coins with portraiture to produce a medium that is durable; portable; and easily reproducible: the portrait medal. As noted in the neighboring label; he cast the first modern portrait medal about 1438 to commemorate Byzantine Emperor John VIII Paleologus's participation in the Council of Ferrara (later moved to Florence). Pisanello's highly influential work ignited the fashion for portrait medals; and his masterful profile view of Paleologus's face influenced future painters; sculptors; and medalists alike. This bronze specimen; likely an aftercast from the same mold as the lead specimen (See 04.01); shows a refinement in its reproduction and includes the reverse design originally absent from the lead specimen.