Lodewijk Napoleon, koning van Holland, connetable de France 1806 - 1810

This medal was crafted by George to depict Lodewijk Napoleon, King of Holland. We see the profile of Lodewijk, but it is the crest on the reverse that draws our attention. The eagle, an ancient symbol of power, is prominently displayed, evoking imperial authority. The eagle motif has its roots in antiquity, particularly in the Roman Empire, where it represented Jupiter, king of the gods, and the military strength of the state. Over centuries, it has resurfaced in various guises, notably adopted by Charlemagne and later by numerous European powers, each imbuing it with their own specific nationalistic or dynastic significance. Here, the French eagle, surmounted by a crown, not only signifies power but also hints at the complex relationship between Holland and France during Napoleon’s reign. This emblem serves as a potent reminder of the cyclical nature of symbols, their capacity to transcend time, and their persistent ability to stir collective memories of dominance and sovereignty.