Inname van Parijs door de geallieerden en verbanning van Napoleon I Bonaparte, keizer der Fransen naar Elba 1815

This medal commemorates the capture of Paris by the allied forces and the banishment of Napoleon Bonaparte to Elba. Kettle & Söhne created this token, encapsulating a pivotal moment in European history. It’s interesting to consider how the creators chose to represent Napoleon's downfall. He is depicted riding backwards on a bull, a stark contrast to the powerful, forward-charging imagery he cultivated during his reign. This imagery speaks volumes about the shifting tides of power and the public's perception of him. This medal also highlights the identities of the victors: the Emperor of Austria, the King of Prussia, Wellington, and Prince Schwartzenberg, all listed as the conquerors. Their inclusion reinforces the idea of collective triumph over a single, once-dominant figure. As you consider this medal, think about how history is often told through the lens of those in power, and how even small objects can carry significant weight in shaping our understanding of the past.