Vrede van Rastatt, ter ere van Eugenius van Savoye en de hertog van Villars 1714

This is a silver medal by Georg Friedrich Nuernberger, commemorating the Peace of Rastatt. This peace treaty, signed in 1714, marked the end of hostilities between France and the Holy Roman Empire, during the War of the Spanish Succession. The medal presents a compelling snapshot of the war's aftermath, and it is a moment where identities, power, and peace intersect. On one side are the portraits of Prince Eugene of Savoy, representing the Holy Roman Empire, and the Duke of Villars, representing France; two men who once led opposing forces. The inscription "olim duo fulmina belli" translates to "once two thunderbolts of war." On the other side, an angel is depicted, laying down instruments of war, with the inscription "nunc instrumenta quittis" which means "now you abandon the instruments." This medal encourages us to consider how quickly allies can become enemies, and enemies can become allies, when the game of political power requires it. It serves as a reminder of the human cost of conflict, and also, that peace, however fragile, is always possible.