Queen Victoria 1887

This is a gold medal of Queen Victoria, made by Leonard Charles Wyon in England. It depicts Victoria in profile, wearing a crown and veil, and is inscribed with the words "Victoria Regina et Imperatrix," meaning "Victoria, Queen and Empress." The medal reflects the social and political context of Victorian England. As Queen, Victoria was the head of state and a symbol of national identity. The medal, which was made during the height of the British Empire, served as a propaganda tool, promoting the image of Victoria as a powerful and benevolent ruler. It’s important to remember that this image was carefully constructed and disseminated through official channels. To truly understand the medal, we need to consider the social conditions that shaped its production. Looking at the history of the British Empire, the role of the monarchy, and the development of visual culture in the Victorian era allows us to understand the medal as a product of its time.