Margarteha van Oostenrijk, landvoogdes der Nederlanden, rekenpenning van de raad van Financiën 1529

This is a bronze medal of Margaretha van Oostenrijk, Governor of the Netherlands, made by an anonymous artist now held in the Rijksmuseum. What strikes you first is the circular form and the dense imagery packed into such a small space. Structurally, the medal presents two distinct sides: one featuring a complex floral design, and the other a heraldic shield. The text encircling these images isn't just decorative; it anchors the visual elements, providing a framework for understanding the medal's purpose. This interplay between text and image is crucial. The images are not self-explanatory, and need the framing and context the inscription provides. The use of bronze, with its earthy tones, gives a sense of solidity and permanence, attributes one might associate with governance and finance. Consider the medal not just as a historical artifact but as a semiotic device. The shield and floral design are signs, laden with cultural and historical meaning. By bringing these elements together, the anonymous artist not only commemorated Margaretha van Oostenrijk, but also engaged in a dialogue about power, representation, and the evolving identity of the Netherlands. The structure of the medal is thus not merely aesthetic; it's a carrier of meaning.