Ontzet van Bergen op Zoom door Maurits 1622

This silver medal commemorating the relief of Bergen op Zoom by Maurits, was made by Willem van Bylaer, sometime in the early to mid-17th century. It's a potent example of the politics of imagery in the Dutch Golden Age. Note the portrait of Maurits of Nassau, a key figure in the Dutch revolt against Spanish rule. The medal was not just a personal commemoration but also a piece of political propaganda. It creates meaning through visual codes and historical associations. Consider that it was made during a time of intense national self-definition for the Dutch Republic. The coat of arms on the reverse side, symbolizes power and legitimacy, reflecting the political and economic structures of the time. Understanding this medal requires us to delve into the social conditions, and institutional history that shaped its production. Sources like period documents and political pamphlets can shed light on the medal’s original context and meaning. By considering this artwork within its social and institutional context, we can begin to understand its intended impact.