Medal Showing Henry IV of France (b. 1553, r. 1589–1610) and Marie de Médicis (1573–1642) 1603

This bronze medal portrays Henry IV and Marie de Médicis, crafted by Guillaume Dupré. Note the profiles, rigid and stoic, a symbolic representation of power. Circular medals like these evoke ancient Roman coins, a deliberate revival linking French monarchy to the glory of the Roman Empire. Consider the laurel wreath encircling the inscription. Laurels, in antiquity, crowned victors and emperors, signifying triumph and honor. This symbol resurfaces repeatedly through history, adorning Renaissance paintings and Neoclassical sculptures, each time reinforcing ideals of excellence and authority. It reminds us of a deep-seated human need to commemorate achievements. Such symbols tap into our collective memory, a visual language passed down, evolving yet retaining core meanings. This medal isn't merely a portrait; it’s a carefully constructed statement, echoing historical precedents and engaging with our ingrained perceptions of leadership. Observe how Dupré uses these time-honored symbols to shape the perception of the French monarchs, an act of cultural and psychological manipulation that continues to resonate across centuries.