Fourth Form of the Afghanistan Medal, 1842 1842

This bronze medal, the Fourth Form of the Afghanistan Medal, was designed by William Wyon. It was created to commemorate the British and Indian soldiers who participated in the disastrous 1842 retreat from Kabul and the subsequent military actions. The medal features a profile of Queen Victoria, a representation laden with the weight of the British Empire's ambitions. This image embodies power and authority, yet it contrasts sharply with the realities of colonial warfare. The soldiers who received this medal faced unimaginable hardships; many were injured, traumatized, or killed during the conflict. While the medal was intended to honor their service, it also served as a tool of imperial propaganda, reinforcing the narrative of British superiority even in the face of defeat. By examining the visual language of this medal, we can confront the complex and often contradictory legacies of colonialism. It is a testament to both individual bravery and the broader forces of political power.