Ferdinand I, koning van Bohemen en Hongarije 1529

This silver medal portrays Ferdinand I, King of Bohemia and Hungary, and was made by an anonymous artist. Coins and medals from this period were not only currency but also tools to establish and reinforce power. Consider the intricate details, the carefully chosen symbols and inscriptions that aim to communicate Ferdinand's authority and legitimacy. In many ways this is pure propaganda; these medals were distributed widely to influence public perception, particularly during times of political upheaval. Ferdinand’s identity as a powerful European monarch is thus closely tied to his image. How might this medal function to solidify his status and assert his dominance? This medal serves as a reminder of the complex relationship between power, representation, and identity. It invites us to think about how identity is actively created and negotiated through objects.