This remarkable cast medallion of the Late Byzantine period is of great importance since it is attributed to the famous artist Pisanello. The obverse depicts the emperor's head turned towards the right, while the reverse shows the emperor on horseback adoring a cross. The emperor's name appears on the obverse, while the artist's name and profession are inscribed on the reverse. Antonio di Pucio from Pisa, also known as Pisanello (c. 1380-1455), is regarded as the first artist in modern times to have executed medallions and signed them as 'painter' (pictor). This medallion belongs to a series, which was issued in 1438/9 depicting John VIII, probably on the occasion of the Council of the Churches, which was held first in Ferrara and then in Florence.