Verheffing van de prins van Oranje tot stadhouder 1747

Editor: Here we have "Verheffing van de prins van Oranje tot stadhouder," or "Elevation of the Prince of Orange to Stadholder," from 1747, by Nicolaas van Swinderen. It’s an engraving, I believe on metal, and has a real sense of Baroque opulence, even for such a small object. How would you interpret the symbolism at play here? Curator: Indeed! Look closer, and we see a conscious appeal to imagery meant to evoke very specific historical and cultural memories. The Prince, presented in profile, is reminiscent of Roman emperors on coinage. What message do you think that visual reference is intended to convey? Editor: Power, obviously, and legitimacy. Like he's part of a long, unbroken line of rulers? Curator: Precisely! And what about the other side? The lion with the sword… the Latin text. The rosebush sprouting from a book. These aren't just decorative flourishes. Each carries a heavy symbolic weight. Can you unpack some of it? Editor: The lion…well, that's Dutch heraldry, isn't it? Strength, the nation... And the sword implying military prowess, I imagine? The book, with the rose, maybe speaks to knowledge, growth… blooming under guidance? Curator: Yes! The text "Honi soit qui mal y pense” is French. A direct reference to the Order of the Garter, evoking notions of chivalry. This medal is crammed with symbolism intended to associate Prince William with power, legitimacy, military strength, and noble ideals. What emotional effect would you imagine that has for a viewer in 1747? Editor: Definitely a sense of confidence, even nationalistic pride, I would think. Like they're tapping into something much bigger than just one person. Curator: Exactly. The past being very much alive in the present to bolster a better future. Editor: I never thought of medal engravings as being so laden with meaning. Thank you. Curator: It’s an intricate cultural narrative packed into a small object. Thinking about symbolism certainly deepens the way one sees and experiences history!