Untitled

The medallions contrast a figure of authority ('Rector Universalis') with a mythological or symbolic scene (winged horse). 'Ruanda' suggests a connection to Rwanda, potentially indicating the subject's title or jurisdiction. The winged horse scene may allude to themes of aspiration, freedom, or mythological reference, though its specific meaning remains unclear without further context.

The photograph's technical aspects are not emphasized; it serves primarily as a documentary record of the medallions. The medallions themselves exhibit relief carving, with inscriptions and symbolic imagery characteristic of commemorative or ceremonial pieces. The style blends classical elements (profile portrait, winged horse) with specific, potentially colonial-era references.

Submitted to William Kineton Parkes through his 1920s questionnaire project on sculpture, the photograph became part of his collection, bequeathed to the Archive of Art and Design in 1938. Parkes's background in art history and librarianship, alongside his novelistic pursuits, contextualizes the collection's eclectic nature.

Created in 1931, the medallions reflect the intersection of traditional craftsmanship with the historical context of their time, possibly hinting at colonial or administrative themes through the 'Ruanda' designation. The use of Latin ('A.D. MCMXXXI') adds a layer of formal or official significance.

As part of the Archive of Art and Design, the photograph contributes to the historical record of sculptural practices and the interests of collectors like Parkes. Its accessibility through institutions like the Victoria and Albert Museum facilitates ongoing study and interpretation of its subjects and symbolism.