Tunis op de Turken veroverd 1535

This is a lead medal, commemorating the conquest of Tunis by the Spanish in 1535. The anonymous artist created a piece that reflects the complex interplay between politics, religion, and identity in 16th-century Europe. The medal features a coat of arms on one side and an image of Charles V, Holy Roman Emperor, on the other. He led the conquest, which was framed as a Christian victory over the Muslim world. But this narrative obscures the strategic and economic interests that also motivated the invasion. Such medals often served as propaganda tools, meant to shape public perception and bolster the image of powerful rulers. In this context, the conquest of Tunis would be seen as a triumph for Christendom and a demonstration of Charles V's power. Consider the stories that are told and those that are left out. The medal invites us to reflect on the ways in which historical events are framed and remembered.