Slag bij Stockach, ter ere van Karel Lodewijk Johan, aartshertog van Oostenrijk 1799

Curator: This striking metal artwork is titled "Battle of Stockach, in honor of Karl Ludwig Johann, Archduke of Austria," created in 1799 by Peter Baldenach. Editor: It’s small, but what a forceful statement! The reflective quality of the metal combined with the strong neoclassical imagery almost makes it feel like propaganda. Curator: It absolutely functioned as propaganda. Pieces like these were often commissioned to commemorate victories and solidify political power during times of conflict and social upheaval. The Archduke, of course, was a key figure in the fight against revolutionary France. Editor: Looking at the way the metal is worked, you can really see the artisan’s skill. It’s amazing how much detail they packed into such a small format. The crafting itself serves a purpose beyond just rendering an image; the material’s permanence speaks to the intended durability of the Archduke's reputation. Curator: Yes, and the allegorical imagery on the reverse reinforces that. The angel of fame atop the column, the weapons, the shield…it’s all designed to create a narrative of strength and righteousness around the Archduke's actions. The museum's catalog describes the reverse Latin text as glorifying the constitution protected by arms. Editor: And the inscription is key! The deliberate labor to form letters on metal. Consider the hours dedicated to this artwork, that contributes value to the coin in our eye as consumer. We have a bias in modern capitalist society, thinking that metal always has monetary or weapons purposes. But metal-works for a sculpture transforms perception by creating lasting cultural heritage Curator: That transformation is exactly the point. Pieces like these served not only to record history but to actively shape its interpretation and perception by the public. It makes you consider, how does commemorative metal like this coin influence our memory, perception, and glorification of leaders, victory, constitution, and history? Editor: Exactly. It's interesting how this tangible piece made of base metal transcends time, holding meaning beyond a mere artifact. Curator: Indeed, looking at its influence in how leaders have shaped history by using the battle of image versus victory, truly transforms this neoclassical style engraved coin.