Verschillende overwinningen der Nederlanders in dit jaar 1602

This silver medal, by Gerard van Bylaer, celebrates Dutch victories with a striking visual economy. Its circular form is entirely filled with dense, meticulously detailed scenes of land and naval battles. The contrast between the land and sea battles creates a visual duality, reflecting the multifaceted nature of the conflict. The artist’s formal choices create a sense of dynamism and tension. Notice how the dense arrangement of figures and ships, combined with the stark contrast of light and shadow, mimics the chaos of war. Text wraps around the images; this framing device is as much structural as informative. The medal operates as a semiotic device, encoding cultural values and narratives into its material form. The choice of silver itself suggests value, permanence, and triumph. These design elements function as signs, inviting reflection on themes of power, national identity, and the mediation of history through art. The medal’s structure, therefore, isn’t just aesthetic but also a cultural artifact.