Description
Hungary, Matthias Corvinus (1458-1490 AD), gold Goldgulden, Hermannstadt, mayor Thomas Altemberger, standing St. Ladislaus between h and T. Rev. Virgin Mary and child, raven with ring in beak below, thistle flowers on each side, 3.55g (Huszár 680, Friedberg 22, Pohl K 21).
Extremely fine.
Matthias Corvinus was one of the first European monarchs to be promoting the spread of Renaissance style in his realm. He was married to Beatrice of Naples which strengthened the influence of contemporary Italian art. Matthias is remembered as patron of art and science. His royal library, the Bibliotheca Corviniana, was one of the largest collections of books in Europe. With his patronage, Hungary became the first country to embrace the Renaissance from Italy. He is also known as Matthias the Just, the monarch who wandered among his subjects in disguise, remaining a popular hero of Hungarian folk tales.
