Slag bij Culloden, penning geslagen ter ere van Willem, hertog van Cumberland 1746

This is a medal commemorating the Battle of Culloden. Cast in bronze by an anonymous artist, it captures a pivotal moment in British history. On one side, we see the Duke of Cumberland triumphantly on horseback, a pose echoing classical equestrian statues of emperors and conquerors. This motif can be traced back through the Renaissance, to the ancient world, symbolizing power and authority. The reverse depicts the brutal reality of the battle: lines of soldiers and fallen rebels. The figure of the horse is particularly interesting. It's more than just a mode of transport, it’s a symbol deeply entwined with notions of courage, nobility, and control. Think of Alexander the Great and Bucephalus, or the steeds of the Valkyries. The rearing horse, specifically, often represents untamed power, now brought under the Duke’s command. Such imagery resonates with deep-seated psychological themes—the control of primal instincts, the triumph over chaos. Ultimately, this medal is not just a historical record, but a potent piece of propaganda, carefully crafted to evoke an emotional response. The cyclical return of such symbols reveals our continuous grappling with power, conflict, and control across the ages.