Inname van Parijs door de geallieerden 1814

This commemorative medal was made in 1814 by Kettle & Söhne, likely from brass. The imagery was achieved through die-striking, a process involving a hardened steel punch engraved with the design. The medal commemorates the Allied forces' capture of Paris, which marked a turning point in the Napoleonic Wars. Brass lends itself well to the crisp, stamped details – observe the figure of Victory on the front, juxtaposed with the inscription listing the conquering emperors, kings, and generals on the reverse. The small hole at the top suggests it was worn or displayed, perhaps as a proud emblem of allegiance. While die-striking is inherently a form of mass production, this medal possesses a particular human touch. Each strike required careful alignment and pressure, a skilled process far removed from today’s automated manufacturing. The slight imperfections in the impression bear witness to this handcraft, reminding us of the human effort behind even the most ostensibly mechanical processes, and offering insight into the social and political climate of the time.