Citadel van Antwerpen, draagteken uitgereikt aan de verdedigers 1832

This is a medal awarded to the defenders of the Citadel of Antwerp, created by Johannes Petrus Schouberg. Though undated, it exists as a material artifact of early 19th-century conflict. The medal commemorates a specific act of military service, but what does it tell us about the identities and experiences of those involved? Medals like these were typically awarded to soldiers, often men from various social classes who were conscripted or volunteered for military service. Receiving such an award could signify valor and loyalty, reinforcing notions of national identity and patriotism. Yet, it also highlights the disparities in power and privilege inherent in military structures. This medal encourages us to consider the human cost of conflict and the complex interplay between individual experiences and collective memory. Though it might be tempting to idealize such relics as symbols of heroism, we must remember the emotional dimensions of war, with its lasting impact on individuals and communities.