Ordeteken van het Legioen van Eer van I. J. A. Gogel c. 1811

This badge of the Legion of Honor was presented to I. J. A. Gogel, and is made from gold and enamel. Consider the contrast between the medal’s delicate appearance and the great labor involved in its production. The gold would have been mined and refined, the enamel painstakingly applied in multiple layers and firings. This level of detail speaks to the value placed on the medal as a signifier of social status. The vibrant colors, smooth surfaces, and precise detailing were all carefully considered to communicate power. The medal has a suspension loop, to be worn from a ribbon. This suggests it was made to be seen, and flaunted in public. The medal would have been fabricated by skilled goldsmiths and enamelers, who were masters of their trades. Their expertise is visible in every detail, from the intricate design to the flawless finish. Next time you see an object like this, think about the many hands that contributed to its making, and the wider social context in which it was created. The medal may look precious, but its true value lies in the story it tells.