Barrette met miniatuur van Militaire Willems-Orde Ridder 4e klasse, Metalen Kruis 1830-1831 en een Citadel-medaille. after 1832

This barrette with miniatures was assembled by an anonymous maker, featuring a Military William Order Knight 4th class, a Metal Cross 1830-1831, and a Citadel Medal. Made from a variety of materials like precious metals, enamel, and textiles, these medals are more than just decorative objects; they are potent symbols of valor and service. The process of crafting these medals would have involved a range of skilled artisans, each contributing their expertise. Metalworkers would have cast and shaped the forms, while others would have applied the delicate enamel work. Consider the labor involved in the intricate details of each medal. The materials themselves speak to the wealth and resources of the Dutch state, but also to the sacrifices made by individuals in service. The textiles, though simple, add a tactile dimension, connecting the medals to the wearer’s body and experience. The assembly of these medals is a reminder that even seemingly small objects can carry immense historical and social weight, blurring the boundaries between art, craft, and national identity.