Vrede van Teschen 1779

Johann Leonhard Öxlein created this silver medal, entitled "Vrede van Teschen," sometime in the late 18th century. The medal’s small scale speaks to its origins in the skilled tradition of die-cutting, a meticulous process involving the precise engraving of metal to create a relief image. The imagery is rich with cultural significance, commemorating a historical moment. The medal's creation reflects broader social issues of labor and politics. Minting coins and medals was a complex, skilled operation, usually overseen by the state or by powerful individuals. The value of the medal is more than just intrinsic in the silver; it’s also in the labor required to produce it, and what it represents. Understanding the materials, making, and context of the "Vrede van Teschen" deepens our appreciation, challenging conventional distinctions between art and craft. This lens highlights the intricate relationship between artistry, historical context, and societal values, enriching our perception of this historical object.