Voltaire 1770

Curator: The sharp relief immediately communicates to me the value intended for this object; its reflective metal surface highlights the clean lines. Editor: Indeed. What we have here is a medal, "Voltaire", created around 1770 in the Neoclassical style, crafted from metal in relief, probably to commemorate or celebrate the man. I wonder about its materiality – what kind of metal was used? And who commissioned its manufacture and why? Curator: The uniform texture and monochrome, silver-like appearance evoke a feeling of timelessness and reverence. It suggests classical sculptures. I find its aesthetic quite calming and precise. Editor: Calm, perhaps, but let’s think about this in the context of its production. Metalwork in the 18th century wasn’t some simple affair. The process of striking or casting this medal would have involved skilled laborers and specialized tools. Who were they and how did they work? This medallion exists in relationship to that historical reality. Curator: True, it speaks to craftsmanship, but I'm more taken by the elegant portrayal of Voltaire and the symbolic imagery on the reverse. Notice the careful attention to detail in the lettering, framing of the portrait. The other side also bears many adornments. It’s a balanced and pleasing composition. Editor: Composition serves a purpose. This isn't merely about aesthetics, it’s about enshrining a specific vision of Voltaire, likely a vision sanctioned or driven by certain interests within society at that time. The manufacture and distribution of the piece can illuminate social and political dynamics in the 18th century, for sure. Curator: That’s a perspective worth exploring, to be sure. Editor: Right! These seemingly aesthetic choices aren't just formal elements but reflect societal decisions. It makes the history embedded within so intriguing, don't you think?