29 JUNE 1839, Page 20

WYON'S MEDAL FOR LLOYD'S.

THE Underwriters' of Lloyd's commissioned Mr. WYON to strike a medal for the purpose of rewarding the services of officers and others in saving lives and property from shipwreck, and rendering assistance to vessels in distress. Hitherto, a sum of' money has been the usual mode of acknowledging such services ; but as there are many to whom such a present could not with propriety be offered, it was thought de- sirable to have an elegant and enduring testimonial that would be acceptable to persons of all classes-not, however, to supersede the pecuniary boon where it is deserved and would be welcome. The medal is very handsome, and of large dimensions. On the ob- verse is a classic design, representing the sea-deity Leueothoii rescuing Ulysses, with the motto" Leucothoil naufrago succurrit ;" on the re- verse is a wreath of oak, encircling the motto" Ob civis servatos." The words "Presented by Lloyd's" are inscribed above, and the name of the party to whom the medal is given is engraved on the edge. The execution of the whole is beautiful : the modelling of the forms is masterly ; and the head of Ulysses is quite a study of character, minute as is its scale. The relief is bold, but not obtrusive ; the outline of the forms and thAr musculation are delicately and sharply defined, in the purest taste : the rich details of the oak foliage of the wreath heighten by contrast the chaste effect of the design on the obverse.

Impressions are struck in bronze and silver : the bronze is a fine, massive medal ; but the silver, in which the exquisite finish of the die is seen to advantage, is the most superb work of its kind this country has produced.