Willem I Frederik, koning der Nederlanden 1815 - 1840

This is a lead medal depicting Willem I Frederik, King of the Netherlands, made by an anonymous artist. The portrait captures Willem I in his military attire, a symbol of power and authority during a time of significant political transition in the Netherlands. Consider the weight of this object, both literally and figuratively. As a symbol of leadership, this medal reflects the complex dynamics of monarchy and national identity. How does the anonymous nature of the artist affect our understanding of the medal's purpose? Was it meant to be a form of mass communication, or a more personal token of allegiance? The medal invites us to think about the relationship between rulers and their subjects, and the ways in which power is negotiated through images and objects. While seemingly a traditional representation of authority, its existence also opens up questions about identity, representation, and the emotional connection between a nation and its leader.