Kroning van Willem III en Maria II Stuart 1689

Editor: This medal, crafted by Jan Smeltzing in 1689, commemorates the coronation of William III and Mary II Stuart. Being made of metal, it has this hefty and ageless character, which makes the historic moment even more striking! The imagery looks kind of chaotic. What do you make of it? Curator: Chaotic, perhaps, but powerfully so! For me, this piece sings of transition, a pivotal 'hec summa dies,' that "auspicious day," blazoned at the top like a divine pronouncement. Note how the sun’s rays illuminate the fragmented ship – a symbol of troubled waters overcome. Editor: Oh! So it's less about chaos and more about overcoming obstacles? The ship imagery makes more sense now. Curator: Precisely! Think of the Stuart dynasty’s turbulent reign preceding William and Mary. The ship, battered but afloat, speaks to the resilience of the English throne. And consider that serpent, crushed underfoot... Any thoughts? Editor: Could it represent the threats and treachery they faced when assuming power? Like, a decisive victory over their enemies? Curator: Indeed! The Baroque style leans into such dramatic pronouncements. But it is important to know such imagery serves power as much as it depicts reality. Isn’t it intriguing how a small metal object can hold so much historical narrative? Editor: Absolutely. I initially just saw it as busy, but understanding the symbols adds so much depth and drama. It almost feels like holding a piece of history in your hand. Curator: It's history re-imagined, recast, re-presented. I think our experience reflects on the cultural impact on the artwork itself, in turn shaping how it should be received. Thanks for prompting me to feel its power afresh.