Frederik van Rheede, baanderheer van Renswoude en Johannes van den Bergh, burgemeester van Leiden, gemachtigden van de Staten, ter ere van hun verdiensten bij de bevrijding van Brussel en het behouden 1708

This silver medal, created by Martin Schmeltzing in 1708, commemorates Frederik van Rheede, baanderheer of Renswoude, and Johannes van den Bergh, mayor of Leiden. The obverse features their profiles in relief, while the reverse depicts the allegory of the city of Brussels, personified by a woman holding a shield and a spear, standing on a pedestal adorned with symbols of the city. The medal celebrates their achievements in the liberation of Brussels and the preservation of its liberties, highlighting the role of Dutch leaders in European affairs. This small, but significant piece of art is a testament to the cultural and political landscape of the 18th century Netherlands.