Geboorte van prins Leopold van Oostenrijk 1716

This silver medal depicting ‘Geboorte van prins Leopold van Oostenrijk’ was created by Philippe Roëttiers. Roëttiers, who served as a medallist to Louis XIV, crafted this piece to celebrate the birth of Prince Leopold. The medal embodies the intersection of political power and personal identity. On one side, we see a portrait of Emperor Leopold I, rendered in profile, his regal bearing and laurel wreath symbolizing imperial authority. Turn it over, and you will see a cherubic figure amidst clouds, representing the newborn prince. The inscription ‘Aeternitas Aug’ hints at the dynasty’s hopes for eternal reign. The medal is a fascinating artifact, reflecting not only the personal joy surrounding a birth, but also the political machinery of dynastic succession and imperial ambition.