Maria van Hongarije, landvoogdes der Nederlanden 1549

This circular medal of Maria van Hongarije was crafted by an anonymous artist. Its compact scale and tactile materiality invite close inspection. The copper's patinated surface, marked by time, adds a layer of depth and complexity, evoking a sense of history. The medal’s design is structured around symbolic elements, typical of numismatic art. The arrangement of heraldic symbols and inscriptions is carefully balanced, creating a visual language of power and authority. On one side, the prominent emblem is surrounded by text, forming a complete semiotic system designed to convey specific messages about Maria van Hongarije and her governance. This medal is not merely a historical artifact; it represents the intersection of art, power, and representation. Its structure and semiotic system invites us to decode its intended meanings and cultural significance. The formal qualities of the medal serve a larger discourse about identity, power, and historical memory.