Alfonso V of Aragon, King of Naples and Sicily (b. 1396; r. 1442–58)

This medal celebrates Alfonso as soldier, humanist, and king. The book on the helmet was a typical impresa of Alfonso, who loved reading the ancient authors. The reverse composition is a traditional medieval allegory of royal liberality, as the eagle would allow the lesser birds to feed on its prey—in this case, Alfonso, the conqueror of Naples and the Two Sicilies, granting favors, lands, and titles to his most loyal followers. A study of an eagle by Pisanello (Louvre, Paris) may relate to the reverse.

Source: Scher, Stephen K., et al. The Scher Collection of Commemorative Medals. New York and London, 2019.