Vrede te Aken 1748

Curator: This object is a silver medal called "Vrede te Aken," or "Peace at Aachen," crafted in 1748 by Martin Holtzhey. It's a striking example of Baroque engraving. Editor: My immediate impression is how intricately detailed this small object is; there's such incredible finesse in its making! The play of light on the silver, even in a photograph, suggests a masterful control of texture. Curator: Absolutely. The medal commemorates the Treaty of Aachen, ending the War of the Austrian Succession. Holtzhey, the engraver, likely produced these medals on a relatively large scale as celebratory keepsakes, reflecting a wider distribution and consumption of such commemorative art at the time. Editor: The imagery is potent. On one side, we see a female figure – Astraea, perhaps, representing justice – with scales held aloft. Above her, angelic figures float among the clouds. What does it all signify? Curator: You’re spot on; that is Astraea, signaling the return of justice and peace to the earth. The other symbols all speak to renewed prosperity: a lion, representing strength, and the inscription ‘Pax aqui transit sanctio,’ or, ‘peace sanctioned here’. Holtzhey expertly blends classical allegories with religious imagery, reinforcing the narrative of peace as a divine blessing. Editor: The reverse side depicts crowned coats-of-arms encircling a heart. Are these the nations involved in the peace accord? This layering of heraldic emblems really speaks to the political context of the time, wouldn’t you agree? Curator: Exactly, and notice the skilled engraving: Each shield is rendered with such distinct character, hinting at the individual artisan's attention to craft. The radiant heart at the center underscores the theme of unity achieved through the treaty. From my viewpoint, each heraldic carving speaks to the laborious and repetitive practices employed by craftsmen working within formal production models. Editor: I find myself drawn to how these seemingly disparate symbols work together to project power and the desired emotional impact of peace – quite impressive for such a small piece! Curator: Indeed, and considering the means of its creation – the cutting of dies, the striking of medals – one recognizes that Holtzhey likely oversaw many of these commemorative items being made as a symbol of this hard-won truce. Editor: Looking closer has given me a newfound appreciation for its complexities. This medal represents more than just an artistic display; it encapsulates a moment of historical and cultural transition through potent symbolism. Curator: For me, it has always been about the sheer act of making.