Ontzet van Barcelona 1706

This medal commemorating the relief of Barcelona was made by Martin Schmeltzing, likely in the early 18th century. It’s crafted from silver, a valuable material that immediately signifies its importance. Consider the process: the design would have been meticulously engraved into dies by a skilled hand, using specialized tools to create the intricate details we see on both sides. The medal was then struck, a process involving force and pressure to transfer the image from the dies to the silver. The weight of the medal in your hand speaks to its inherent value, both monetary and symbolic. Medals like these weren’t just decorative; they were tools of propaganda and remembrance. They circulated among elites, reinforcing narratives of power and military success. This medal highlights the deep connections between artistic production, political power, and the broader forces of conflict and consumption in early modern Europe. By looking closely at materials and making, we gain insight into the medal’s historical significance.