Bust of a woman in a medallion Her elegant coiffure features a feathered cap and curly hair held back in a net, with a lock of hair knotted on the forehead. The ‘ferronière’ headband decorated with a jewel gives her a refined, precious air. The rounded shoulders, full-cheeked oval face, and long neck with the head tilted to one side create soft lines which echo the curve of the medallion she appears to emerge from. The bust is nude but for a wide-link chain necklace from which hangs a tag featuring the date 1532.

This sculpture may have adorned the façade of a house in the rue du Collège, or perhaps a coffered ceiling in a house in the rue des Orfèves, Vienne (in the Isère region). This type of bust, framed in a tondo, was very popular in the Renaissance era, and was found on homes in several regions in France, in particular in the Rhône valley. The design may come from Italy, but the simplicity and grace are typical of the French style, especially that of the Touraine province. Medallions would usually have been placed high up, as is confirmed here by the form of the relief, designed to be seen from below. Is she a portrait, or an allegory of feminine beauty? This figure overlooks the entrance of the Palais Saint Pierre, enticing visitors with her soft sensuality.