Onthoofding van Anthony van Stralen, heer van Merssem en Dambrugge, burgemeester van Antwerpen 1566

Curator: This is a 1566 metal sculpture by Jacques Jonghelinck entitled, "Onthoofding van Anthony van Stralen, heer van Merssem en Dambrugge, burgemeester van Antwerpen," which translates to “Beheading of Anthony van Stralen, Lord of Merssem and Dambrugge, Mayor of Antwerp.” It depicts, well, precisely that. Editor: Striking how the metallic sheen renders such a grim subject in an almost pristine light. It focuses the mind; it's all about the purity of line and form. Curator: The choice of metal and the coin-like presentation transform this gruesome execution into a commemorative, even celebratory, object. Consider the politics of public execution, the ways that state-sponsored violence was displayed and consumed, and the performative nature of justice in the 16th century. The beheading of a mayor speaks to a society in crisis, an established order in chaos. Editor: Absolutely. Technically, Jonghelinck has really captured the fall of light on the figure's face, despite the limits of the medium. See how the inscription circles the image, emphasizing the sculptural nature? The texture— the man’s hair, the rope trim—is cleverly done. It gives form to chaos. Curator: Van Stralen was beheaded for treason. In this light, the medal’s purpose isn’t merely commemorative but also an attempt to legitimize state violence. Medals like these functioned as a propaganda tool. What statements do we read regarding power and accountability here? Or how that accountability might have been abused? Editor: Do you think that the scale contributes to this tension? These objects have been produced en masse and made small. Something normally enormous rendered intimately small has a powerful impact. Curator: Precisely. This is a chilling artifact from the past but an important marker for present conversations regarding our relationship to politics, violence, and social justice. Editor: A brutal subject elevated to a fascinating study of technique and form; stark and very difficult to turn away from.