Vijfentwintigjarig Nederlanderschap van Koningin Emma 1904 1904

This small bronze medal, made in 1904 by Johannes Cornelis Wienecke, commemorates Queen Emma’s twenty-fifth year as a Dutch citizen. I love the way the artist has used the material itself, that warm bronze, to give a sense of history and solidity. Look closely, and you’ll see the texture is rich with tiny marks, each one carefully placed. On one side, Queen Emma’s profile emerges, regal and serene, while on the other, intricate lettering and symbols tell a story of national pride. It’s amazing how much detail is packed into such a small space, it reminds me of the way information can be layered in a painting. Wienecke reminds me of artists like Paul de Vree who weren’t afraid to use their work to make a statement. There’s something so satisfying about seeing an artist use a traditional form to celebrate the present moment. Art isn’t just about beauty; it’s about engaging with the world around us, asking questions, and maybe even making a little bit of noise.