Large 16th-century "kisses Of Peace" Medallion Dated 1516

Large bone "kiss of peace" engraved on a walnut core
Northern Italy, Renaissance, dated 1516

A very rare and remarkable large Kiss of Peace, composed of finely engraved bone plates affixed to a walnut core, taking the form of a small Renaissance architectural structure.

The upper panel is occupied by God the Father, with a halo, depicted in majesty and holding the Book of Scripture. Set within the triangular pediment, he dominates the scene of Christ and lends the composition a profoundly theological interpretation, evoking Christ’s sacrifice and Passion under the Father’s gaze.

The quality of the engraved drawing is particularly noteworthy. The figures have very slender proportions, small heads, and elongated bodies—characteristics of the figurative style of the Italian Renaissance. The drapery, rendered with numerous supple and dynamic folds, further accentuates this verticality sought after by artists of the early 16th century.

The secondary decoration is exceptionally rich: foliage scrolls, vases of flowers, volutes, cord friezes, and architectural ornaments all contribute to the object’s precious and monumental appearance.

An inscription engraved in the center of the base reads “MDXVI,” or 1516, allowing us to precisely date this work to the first quarter of the 16th century.

The walnut reverse side has a very beautiful patina. The original handle is now missing, but its attachment point remains perfectly visible on the reverse side, confirming the object’s original function.

The kisses of peace, or osculatoria, were intended for Catholic liturgy: they were presented to the faithful to symbolically convey the kiss of peace, particularly during solemn ceremonies. Their craftsmanship in precious or meticulously worked materials, such as ivory, bone, or precious metals, attests to the importance of this object in religious ceremony.

With its exceptional size, decorative richness, iconography, and above all the presence of the date 1516, this kiss of peace is a remarkable example of Italian Renaissance religious art.