Willem II, koning der Nederlanden, penning van de eerste grootte 1840 - 1841

This gold medal of Willem II, King of the Netherlands, was created by Johannes Petrus Schouberg to commemorate the King. Born into a world shaped by revolution and shifting power dynamics, Willem II's life and reign occurred in the 19th century. Consider how such a piece might reflect both personal identity and larger national narratives. The medal presents a regal image of Willem II, his profile framed by inscriptions denoting his titles. Yet, it also embodies the complexities of power. Willem II, though King, navigated a changing Europe, influenced by burgeoning democratic ideals. The laurel wreath on the reverse side symbolizes victory and honor, traditional motifs employed to legitimize power. But how do such symbols resonate when viewed through a contemporary lens, one that critically examines the legacies of colonialism and social inequality? It invites us to reflect on the emotional weight of history, on how the symbols of power can both inspire and oppress, and on the stories that often remain untold.