Overwinning bij Turnhout, landdagpenning van de Staten van Overijssel 1597

Editor: So, here we have "Overwinning bij Turnhout, landdagpenning van de Staten van Overijssel," created in 1597 by an anonymous artist. It's a metal medal or coin, with relief engraving. It’s surprisingly intricate for such a small object! What can you tell me about this? Curator: Let's consider this medal as an artifact deeply embedded within its socio-political context. The materiality itself—the choice of metal, the process of engraving—speaks to the commemorative function and intended audience. Editor: Commemorative in what way? Curator: The engravings depict the Victory at Turnhout, an important event during the Dutch Revolt. Now, think about the production: who would commission such a piece? And how would it circulate? Editor: It's made for the States of Overijssel. So, commissioned to celebrate power? Curator: Exactly! But it’s also about shaping historical narrative. Metal as a medium holds value, but it’s also quite durable. This isn’t just about recording history; it’s about the message that this victory has to carry into the future, even until our time. What does the detail of labor—the engraver’s skill in this detailed representation—tell us about the perceived value of commemorating this event? Editor: So, beyond the image, you're highlighting the importance of the materials and production, the how and why of its creation, to understand its full meaning? Curator: Precisely! The medal’s intrinsic and symbolic value intertwine, revealing power dynamics, skilled labor, and the drive to immortalize a specific version of history. Editor: Fascinating to consider this small object as such a powerful carrier of complex social information! I'll definitely be thinking more about production processes moving forward.