Sluiting van het drievoudige verbond tussen Engeland, Frankrijk en de Republiek 1596

Curator: Here at the Rijksmuseum we have a small but fascinating piece attributed to an anonymous artist from 1596. It is a carved metal print titled "Sluiting van het drievoudige verbond tussen Engeland, Frankrijk en de Republiek." Editor: It strikes me as quite solemn for its size, doesn't it? The relief work, while minimal, conveys a great deal of formality. The patina gives it a uniform character. Curator: Absolutely. This piece likely functioned as a commemorative medal or coin, which would have served to not only broadcast a political message, but also document historical events within early trade networks. It signifies the alliance between England, France, and the Dutch Republic against Spain. Editor: I notice on the one side of the coin there are figures surrounding a type of altar. The detailing, for such a diminutive work, is impressive. What can you tell me about the arrangement, the composition itself? Curator: The figures represent the leaders of the allied nations. If you look closer, the central figure represents Henry IV of France, flanked by Elizabeth I of England, and Prince Maurice of Orange. The altar displays the shields of each nation, visually uniting them. And then, look at the coin's other side; it's an image that presents an allegorical representation of tyranny being suppressed. Editor: The inscription around the edge-- is it simply a declarative message of solidarity? Curator: Inscriptions play a vital role in the message here. On the obverse you find the alliance declaration, while the reverse is a rallying cry for freedom "Hatred of Tyranny." Editor: Thinking about the function of such a portable item, the choice of metal as the material feels exceptionally crucial to its dispersal through both geographical space and cultural context. Curator: Exactly. The medals' engravings allow it to be reproduced to spread propaganda regarding politics for an extensive reach, helping shape popular opinion. Editor: It's compelling how this modest object encodes complex geopolitical narratives within its circular form. There’s much contained within that small shape. Curator: It certainly invites us to consider how art, even on this scale, plays a critical role in shaping our understanding of historical and political realities.