Kroning van Willem III en Maria II Stuart 1689

This silver medal depicts the coronation of William III and Mary II Stuart, created by George Bower in the late 17th century. It commemorates a pivotal moment in British history following the Glorious Revolution of 1688. This revolution saw the overthrow of James II and the joint ascension of his daughter Mary and her husband, William of Orange. The medal reflects the Protestant succession during a time of intense religious and political conflict. On one side, we see conjoined profiles of William and Mary. On the other, the couple are being crowned, emphasizing their joint rule. The coronation presents a narrative of shared power, yet it's important to remember the gendered dynamics at play. Mary, though a monarch, was often seen as secondary to William, reflecting the patriarchal norms of the era. Bower's medal is more than a historical record; it's a carefully constructed image of power, legitimacy, and the complexities of identity.