Medallion 1833

This bronze medallion, created by Jean-Jacques Barre, immortalizes Benjamin Franklin and Antoine de Montyon. Consider the historical backdrop: Franklin, the American envoy, secured crucial French support during the American Revolution, while Montyon, a philanthropist, funded numerous acts of charity. The medallion, therefore, represents a convergence of enlightenment ideals, and Franco-American alliance. Looking at the composition, both men are depicted in profile. This choice isn't just aesthetic; it's a deliberate decision to portray them as equals. The inscription around each man's head celebrates both men's genius. The work offers a glimpse into the intertwined narratives of philanthropy, diplomacy, and nation-building that defined the era. The medallion is a token of the intricate dance of power, recognition, and legacy, immortalized in the simple yet profound medium of bronze.