Penning met het portret van Karel de Grote 1720

Bernard Picart created this print of a medal portraying Charlemagne. The print was made in 1731, a time when Europe was captivated by its past, seeking to define national identities through historical figures. This image presents two views of the same medal, each encased in a circular frame with Latin inscriptions. On the left, Charlemagne sits enthroned, flanked by figures that give the scene a sense of divine endorsement. He is presented as a figure of divine authority, sitting above a coat of arms which shows the symbols of royal power. The other side shows him on horseback, armed for battle. This work offers a window into the construction of historical memory and national identity. It invites us to reflect on how figures like Charlemagne are used to legitimize power structures and shape cultural narratives. The medal is not just a portrait; it’s a carefully crafted statement about leadership, legacy, and the enduring power of symbols.