Rheinfels ontzet door de Landgraaf van Hessen 1693

Jan (I) Smeltzing created this lead medal, titled *Rheinfels ontzet door de Landgraaf van Hessen*, in 1692. The medal commemorates a specific historical event, the relief of Rheinfels Castle by the Landgrave of Hesse. These commemorative medals, popular in the 17th century, functioned as both historical records and instruments of propaganda. The front depicts a scene of divine intervention, where clouds radiate light over foliage, with the inscription "SIC VNICA GLORIA TRANSIT" meaning "Thus, the only glory passes." This implies that earthly glory is fleeting, while divine glory is eternal. The other side shows the siege of Rheinfels castle. The inscriptions serve to shape the viewer's perception of the event, framing it within a narrative of divine will and justified military action. As you reflect on this medal, consider how such objects not only recorded but also actively constructed historical memory and shaped public opinion.