Inscription: William IV, Prince of Orange, Elected Stadtholder [obverse] 1747

This silver medal was crafted by Johann Christian Marmé around 1747, commemorating William IV, Prince of Orange, being elected Stadtholder. The medal's creation involved skilled die-making and striking, processes that were central to both artistic expression and political communication during this period. The incised inscription and decorative elements were meticulously cut into a steel die. This die would have been used to strike multiple medals, producing sharp, repeatable designs. Silver, as a precious metal, enhanced the medal's value and appeal as a commemorative object. This medal highlights the intersection of art, craft, and politics, reflecting the social and cultural values of its time. The medal's design and production are indicative of the ways in which skilled craftsmanship could be employed to convey political messages and celebrate key events. By understanding the materials, processes, and context involved in its creation, we gain insight into its broader historical significance.