Centennial of the Birth of Charles Darwin, 1809-1882 [obverse] 1909

This circular bronze medal, celebrating the centennial of Charles Darwin's birth, was conceived by Karl Goetz, a German artist. It’s heavy, I can tell that just by looking at the image! Imagine holding this in your hand. Think about the iterative process of creation, like the progressive strikes of a sculptor’s hammer to bring form out of shapelessness. Here, Darwin emerges, a sage-like figure, the weight of his ideas etched into every line of his brow. The artist has really captured the density and mass of the bronze, giving Darwin’s face and beard such detailed texture. The material itself speaks to endurance and lasting legacy. The bas-relief technique reminds me of the importance of touch in the whole history of art-making. The way the artist has played with light and shadow, giving depth and dynamism to Darwin’s visage makes me think about the countless artists who have grappled with capturing the human form and spirit across time. What a lineage to be part of!