Kroning van Ferdinand II tot Duits keizer te Frankfurt 1619

This silver medal commemorates the coronation of Ferdinand II as Holy Roman Emperor in Frankfurt. A classical profile bust of Ferdinand dominates the composition, encircled by an inscription, all sharply rendered. The artist's decision to present the portrait in profile isn't accidental, and its roots lie in antiquity. This conscious visual choice positions Ferdinand within a lineage of powerful figures. The inscription serves not only as a descriptive element, but also as a structural one, framing the central image and reinforcing the medal's symbolic function. The square diamond format is unconventional, breaking from traditional circular designs. Note how the sharp angles contrast with the circular portrait, creating a visual tension. The edges are adorned with symbolic figures, strategically placed to underscore Ferdinand's authority and legitimacy. In the end, the medal serves as an intricate encoding of power, achieved through carefully considered design choices. These are both aesthetic and symbolic.