Overlijden van Koning Willem II 1849 1849

This is a bronze medal created in 1849 by David van der Kellen, commemorating the death of King Willem II. Its circular form, defined by the raised lettering around the edges, presents two distinct sides, each with a unique composition. On one side, we see a profile of the King, his features sharply delineated. The opposite side features an inscription detailing the circumstances of his death. The text is arranged in a structured, almost architectural manner, reflecting the formal conventions of memorial design. Below this, a symbolic image evokes mourning. The medal's material and form invite contemplation on the nature of memory. The medal can be seen as a semiotic object, encoding cultural values related to monarchy, national identity, and remembrance. The use of bronze, a durable material, signifies the lasting impact of the King and the nation's enduring grief. It prompts us to think about how power and emotion intersect in public commemoration.