Kalender der Engelse koningen, ter ere van Willem III 1700

This is a lead calendar made by Nicolas Chevalier around 1700, in honor of William III, King of England. Chevalier, born in the Dutch Republic, worked across Europe as a medalist and coin engraver. Consider how Chevalier's calendar embodies the intersection of politics, identity, and artistry. The piece functioned as propaganda, celebrating William of Orange, a Dutch Prince who became King of England, Scotland, and Ireland. The calendar not only marked time but also solidified political power, associating William with a sense of historical continuity and divine right, reflecting the complexities of European dynastic politics and religious conflict. The choice of lead for the calendar speaks to its intended audience and purpose, highlighting the desire to immortalize William's reign through art. Reflect on how this calendar encapsulates the fusion of art, politics, and personal ambition. It serves as a reminder of how art can shape our understanding of history, inviting us to ponder the stories and power dynamics embedded within.