Slag bij Almenara 1710

This medal, commemorating the Battle of Almenara, was crafted by John Croker in the late 17th or early 18th century. It's made of gold, a material valued across cultures for its beauty, durability, and malleability. The medal's creation involved skilled metalworking techniques. The designs were likely first carved into dies, then stamped onto the gold, a process demanding precision and expertise. Gold, of course, has always been associated with wealth and power, and this medal is no exception, commissioned to celebrate a military victory and honor the individuals involved. The artistry lies not only in the design but in the mastery of the material itself. Consider the labor involved in extracting, refining, and shaping this precious metal. Reflecting on the medal's material and method, we understand its full meaning, challenging the notion of a separation between fine art and craft.