Medal Design for the Action off St. Cast: ANGLIS AB AIGUILONIO DUCE PROFLIGATIS 1758

Curator: At first glance, the composition appears surprisingly static, despite its subject matter. Editor: This is a medal design, attributed to Charles-Norbert Roëttiers. Its subject is the Action off St. Cast, and it dates to 1758. The medium appears to be pen and brown ink, and the piece shows a circular format. Curator: The palm tree at the center divides the space symmetrically, yet the figures flanking it are not mirror images. The use of line is quite delicate, creating a sense of classical reserve. Editor: Indeed. The imagery evokes Roman virtue. Notice the figure on the right, with his laurel wreath and bundle of spears, echoing martial strength, contrasted by the goddess-like figure on the left, a shield bearing fleur-de-lis at her feet, representing the French monarchy. Curator: The two inscribed cartouches hanging from the palm, what might those signify? Editor: They extol the virtues of both the commander and the populace, binding the military and civic pride. Seeing the intertwining of classical motifs with French symbols grants insight into the era’s self-perception. Curator: An interesting melding of symbolic languages, creating a subtle commentary on power. Editor: Precisely! Its balanced lines and careful symbolism give insight into how historical events are translated into visual narratives.