Frederik II, koning van Pruisen, op zijn overwinningen en op de vrede van Dresden 1745

This is a silver medal by Johann Conrad Marmé, commemorating Frederik II's victories and the Peace of Dresden. This medal is a product of its time, reflecting the glorification of monarchs and military prowess. The imagery of Frederik II, adorned with laurel and armor, speaks volumes about the values placed on leadership and strength. The medal develops traditional representations of power, but it also opens up questions about the human cost of conflict. While Frederik II is celebrated, what about the experiences of ordinary soldiers and civilians affected by the war? What about the cultural implications of war? It encapsulates the complex interplay between power, identity, and historical narrative. It prompts us to reflect on how we remember and commemorate historical events and individuals, and whose voices are amplified or marginalized in the process.