Verheffing van de prins van Oranje tot stadhouder 1747

Curator: This medal, titled "Verheffing van de prins van Oranje tot stadhouder," was created in 1747 by Jean Dassier. It's struck in metal, a fairly standard medium for commemorative objects. Editor: It’s surprisingly dynamic for a coin. The low relief makes me think of classical cameos, but there's something almost propagandistic about the imagery. Curator: Precisely. Let's deconstruct the two faces. On one side, we see a profile portrait of William IV, rendered with careful attention to his ornate armor and elaborate wig. The surrounding Latin text identifies him and his roles. Editor: And the other side is more overtly symbolic. There's a winged figure—an angel, perhaps—alongside a warrior in classical garb, seemingly bestowing something upon it. The mood is one of protection and fortitude, wouldn't you say? It looks like a staged drama more than portraiture. Curator: Agreed. Note the warrior’s assertive gesture and how it directs the viewer's eye. Semiotically, he signifies strength and authority, further amplified by the inscription, which reinforces the idea of steadfastness in battle. It certainly serves to legitimize and elevate William's position. The angel represents divine approval, essential in reinforcing the ruler's legitimacy in that era. Editor: I find myself drawn to the almost vulnerable expression of the winged figure. There is also a sense of history—it feels more staged and symbolic. The warrior reminds me of classical Rome or Greece, even though the scene relates to events much later. Curator: A potent blend of historical referencing with contemporary political messaging, indeed. Dassier was consciously tapping into a rich vein of pre-existing imagery to imbue William IV with a sense of timeless authority and power. It showcases an understanding of art as persuasive visual rhetoric. Editor: Examining this work has me considering the way rulers have always constructed their images. Even a seemingly small, reproducible object like this can function as a powerful tool of statecraft.