Verkiezing van Willem Karel Hendrik Friso tot stadhouder Willem IV 1747 1747

This silver commemorative medal was created in 1747 by Martin Holtzhey. It marks a pivotal moment in Dutch history: the election of Willem Karel Hendrik Friso as Stadtholder Willem IV. This event signified a shift towards centralized power, reflecting the complex interplay between political leadership and national identity. On one side, we see Willem IV alongside his wife, Princess Anna of Great Britain. Their conjoined profile isn’t just a portrait; it's a statement about dynastic power, and the role of marriage in solidifying political alliances. The inscription on the reverse side suggests a messianic hope, casting Willem as a "Gideon," a biblical figure who will lead the Netherlands. However, it's crucial to remember that history is written by the victors. Medals such as these served as propaganda tools, carefully crafting a particular narrative. Consider the hopes and anxieties of the Dutch people at this time. How did this moment shape their sense of self and nationhood?