Onthoofding van Karel I van Engeland 1690

Editor: Here we have an intriguing metal object called "Beheading of Charles I", made around 1690. It looks like a commemorative medal. It has quite a solemn and regal tone, despite the morbid subject matter. I'm particularly struck by the detailed engraving. What is your interpretation of this piece? Curator: Well, from a historical perspective, this medal offers insight into the evolving public image, or rather, the manipulation of Charles I’s image after his execution. Produced decades after the event, this medal reflects a growing sentiment, fueled by Royalist propaganda, to martyrise the king. Notice the two sides of the coin. Editor: Yes, one side shows a portrait of Charles I. Curator: Exactly. He’s presented as a dignified ruler, in line with typical baroque portraiture that aimed to glorify leadership. But then flip it, and the narrative takes a dramatic turn. How do you interpret the scene there? Editor: There’s an arm seemingly offering the crown back up to the heavens above some landscape with some animals. Is it some symbolic gesture? Curator: Precisely! Consider how the Dutch Republic, where this medal was created, viewed kingship versus how England viewed it. The execution was shocking and deeply controversial. By 1690, the image of Charles as a wronged martyr served certain political aims, both in England and abroad. This wasn't just history; it was strategic public relations. How do you see this impacting contemporary debates? Editor: It's amazing how art objects such as these could affect public opinions! So this medal then isn't necessarily about mourning the king, it also touches on ideas of political gain and social climate? Curator: Absolutely. Art constantly mediates our relationship to power and memory. Editor: That is something to think about! Thanks!