Vijftigjarige herdenking van de slag bij Waterloo, ter ere van Wellington, Willem II en Blucher 1865

This commemorative medal, made by an anonymous artist, celebrates the fiftieth anniversary of the Battle of Waterloo. Its circular form, adorned with a laurel wreath, frames the conjoined profiles of Wellington, Willem II, and Blücher, immediately presenting a visual unity among the leaders. Above, a bow with tricolor stripes and gold edges adds a flourish, linking the historical event to national pride. The composition, meticulously rendered in metal, uses relief to distinguish the figures and inscriptive text "1815 WATERLOO 1865", creating a sense of depth. The interplay between the raised portraits and the flat background invites contemplation on how historical figures are monumentalized. The medal functions as a semiotic device, translating complex political alliances into an accessible, portable object. The choice of metal, its durability and sheen, suggests a desire to preserve and honor the past. The medal is more than a mere trinket. It serves as a cultural artifact encoding collective memories and values.