Leone Leoni: sculptor, medallist, head of the mint

Leone Leoni was born in Arezzo (Italy) in 1509. In his younger years, Leone studied in Venice, where he joined the group of Titian, a Renaissance painter, and also studied the art of Donatello and Michelangelo Buonarroti. After moving to Rome in 1538, he became the head of the mint, but two years later he was imprisoned because of behind-the-scenes intrigues. He almost lost an arm because he was condemned to cut off a limb, but was saved by the Doge of Genoa.

In 1542, Leone Leoni moved to Milan, where he also became head of the mint. He is supported by the local Governor, and the sculptor begins to receive orders from the Emperor. He makes bronze sculptures and medals with the image of the ruler - Charles V. In the mid-40s, the master made seals for the Duke of Farnese, until he was killed. In 1549, he received an invitation from Charles V to move to Brussels and work there. In the same year, Leone Leoni was knighted.

After returning to Milan, the master created sculptures of famous personalities from noble families. He was a collector: having built a luxurious Palace, called The "House with Atlanteans", he collected a lot of antique sculptures - works by Leonardo da Vinci and other famous artists. In the last period of his life, Leone Leoni moved to Spain for a while, where he created works for king Philip II and his family. The master died in Milan, in 1590.