Vijfentwintigjarig huwelijk van Koningin Wilhelmina en Prins Hendrik 1926 1926

This bronze medal by Jacob Jan van Goor commemorates the twenty-fifth wedding anniversary of Queen Wilhelmina and Prince Hendrik in 1926. Its circular form, a continuous loop, speaks to the enduring nature of marriage itself. On one side, the profiles of Wilhelmina, Hendrik, and Princess Juliana are stacked in relief, their features smooth and idealized, creating a sense of depth within the limited space. The profiles’ symmetry is broken by the shift in their heights, subtly marking the passage of time and generations. The arrangement alludes to a sense of dynastic continuity and projects the image of a modern and stable monarchy. On the reverse, a complex heraldic shield is enclosed by a wreath, the symbolism of which is further complicated by the text surrounding the edge of the medal. In its totality, the medal functions as a coded emblem, where each element contributes to a broader narrative of national identity, family, and history. It invites us to reflect on the ways in which power is represented through visual symbols and the enduring human desire to create lasting monuments.