Inhuldiging van Willem I Frederik als koning der Nederlanden te Brussel 1815

This silver medal by Joseph-Pierre Braemt commemorates the inauguration of Willem I Frederik as King of the Netherlands in Brussels. Braemt was working in a context marked by significant political upheaval following the Napoleonic era. The medal portrays Willem I on one side, and on the other, an allegorical figure, presumably representing the nation, bestowing a crown upon him. These symbolic gestures communicate power and legitimacy. Yet, the inscription below also provides insight into the complexities of Dutch-Belgian relations at this time, reminding us that this moment of unity was layered with political tensions and would ultimately unravel with the Belgian Revolution. This piece offers an opportunity to reflect on how power is constructed and represented through symbols. It encourages us to consider whose voices are amplified and whose are silenced in these historical narratives. The medal ultimately invites us to critically examine the narratives of nationhood.