Mislukte aanslag van de Nederlanders op Martinique 1699 - 1703

Editor: This medal, created in bronze by Jean Mauger between 1699 and 1703, commemorates the failed Dutch attack on Martinique. It’s struck with details on both faces. One side shows the French ruler and the other some type of conquest? It appears to have several figures that create dynamic movements across the face of the coin, although there’s something that's almost cartoonish in their appearance. What do you see in this piece? Curator: I observe an immediate tension in the juxtaposition of the regal portrait and the chaotic scene on the opposing side. Considering it formally, the use of bronze lends the medal a certain gravity, an intended sense of historical permanence. Consider the relationship between the relief, inscription and material; how does this elevate its claim to authority? Editor: That's interesting. I hadn't really thought about the physical material itself reinforcing its meaning beyond just "artwork." So you are talking about its formal claim to artistic or political power? How does the inscription factor? Curator: Precisely. Let’s look closely at the inscription circling the portrait; note its consistent spacing and clear lettering, lending a formal order mirroring the king’s composed profile. How might one interpret the engraving quality, and level of polish of the king, versus the depiction of what seems to be fleeing natives. Do the light and dark qualities on each side give symbolic weight to your considerations? Editor: It does seem to reinforce power dynamics, even just formally. Thanks, looking closely like this definitely brings a whole new layer to how I see medals like this. Curator: Indeed, appreciating the interplay between form, material, and subject allows us to decode the intended messages embedded within.