Louisiana to General Zachary Taylor 1800 - 1854

Charles Cushing Wright created this medal, "Louisiana to General Zachary Taylor," from bronze. Its circular form immediately invites contemplation of heroism, mapping honor onto its compact surface. The medal presents a layered scene, from the palm trees to the laurel wreath; battlegrounds stretch between the peaks where 'Buena Vista' is inscribed. This design harnesses semiotic power. Flags stand as symbols of territorial claims, while each element contributes to a narrative of valor. Wright’s composition invites us to consider how symbols are mobilized to construct a vision of military triumph. The medal's visual grammar doesn't merely depict, but actively shapes our understanding of history. It suggests an interplay between power and representation, continually inviting new interpretations.