This 1729 bronze medal by Jean Dassier is a fine and thoughtful tribute to Dr Samuel Clarke, the respected mathematician and philosopher. It has strong collector appeal for its classical style, its historical subject and its place in the celebrated Dassier series of medals.

The obverse carries a finely modelled bust of Samuel Clarke, shown three-quarters right, wearing a wig and clerical dress. The reverse is equally striking, with a student climbing a rocky path towards Truth, who stands on the summit and points to the radiant name of Jehovah in Hebrew above. This powerful design gives the medal a clear message about learning, faith and the search for truth.

The inscription QUO VERITAS VOCAT means “Where truth calls”, which suits the theme of the medal perfectly. It is also signed J. DASSIER . F., a detail collectors often value, as it confirms the work of one of the most important medal makers of the period. At 42 mm, this is a pleasingly sized bronze medal with excellent presence in hand and in display.

For collectors, this piece is especially interesting because it combines philosophy, religion and medallic art in one carefully made object. Samuel Clarke’s reputation as a learned and influential thinker adds depth to the medal, while Dassier’s refined style and the allegorical reverse make it a rewarding addition to any collection of early 18th-century medals, portrait medals or medals with intellectual and theological themes.