Overlijden van Herman Boerhaave c. 1813

This bronze medal, "Overlijden van Herman Boerhaave", was created by Adriaan Bemme. Notice how the circular form dictates the composition and symbolism of the artwork. The medal's surface is divided into two distinct fields, each containing an arrangement of forms and texts. The first field features a profile portrait of Herman Boerhaave, rendered in meticulous detail. The curvature of his wig, the lines of his face, and the folds of his garment are all captured with precision. The text serves as a signifier, anchoring the portrait's meaning to a specific identity. The second field shifts to an arrangement of text, framed by a symbolic image at the top. This text is not merely descriptive, but also performative. The arrangement of the text creates a structured field of linguistic signs, each contributing to the overall meaning of commemoration. The layout directs the viewer's eye, ensuring that each piece of information is registered. The symbolic image at the top provides a visual counterpoint to the text, enriching the medal's symbolic register.