Medal commemorating the Capture of Valencia in Italy (La Prise de Valence en Italie) 1685 - 1695

This 17th-century medal, created by Louis Simonneau, commemorates the French capture of the Italian city of Valence in 1685. The medal depicts two scenes: a bust portrait of Louis XIV on the left and a scene on the right of a female figure, representing France, planting a French flag, overturning the Spanish flag and signifying victory. The inscription around the edge of the medal reads "VALENTIA AD PADUM VI CAPTA" (Valencia on the Po [river] was taken on the 6th). This medal, currently housed in the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, provides insight into the historical and political context of the time, showcasing the power dynamics and military achievements of France under the reign of Louis XIV.