1959 Portrait of Andor Mészáros by Michael Meszaros Medal

This medal marks the beginning of Michael Meszaros’ remarkable career and his deep artistic bond with his father, renowned sculptor Andor Mészáros. Created in 1959 when Michael was only 13, it was modelled in the family’s Kew studio after school hours and later struck in bronze in 1960. The 130mm medal features a finely polished portrait of Andor in left-facing profile, surrounded by the inscription ‘ANDOR MESZAROS SCULPTOR / AETATIS SUAE LVIII’ with ‘Michael Meszaros 1959’ beneath. The reverse is plain, focusing all attention on the strength and dignity of the sculpted likeness. More than just an early work, it represents the beginning of a lifelong artistic journey and the continuation of a family legacy that has profoundly influenced Australian medallic art. Through the combined works of Andor and Michael Mészáros, spanning portraits, commemorations, and cultural tributes, the pair helped define the modern Australian approach to the art medal.