Oliver Cromwell, Lord Protector 1653

Editor: Here we have Thomas Simon's "Oliver Cromwell, Lord Protector" from 1653, a metal relief sculpture. Looking at this coin, I’m curious about its function. Was it meant to be circulated widely or kept as a sort of precious historical artifact? Curator: It’s crucial to consider the means of production. This isn’t some mass-produced trinket; it's a carefully crafted object using precious metal, designed as a relief. Consider the labor involved. Who were the skilled artisans capable of this delicate work, and what were their working conditions? This reveals the social context behind its creation. Editor: That's a good point, I hadn't considered the maker's role in such a portrait. The act of making the coin then, became a crucial component to how the leader and his power would be displayed, understood and perceived by the population. Curator: Precisely. And how does the materiality affect our reading? The choice of metal – is it gold, silver, or something else? What message does the weight and luster of the coin communicate about Cromwell's power and the state of England at the time? Editor: That shifts my perspective quite a bit. So instead of focusing on Cromwell, we analyze this coin for what it tells us about the systems of labor and the politics of consumption in 17th century England? Curator: Absolutely. Even something seemingly straightforward like this portrait reveals the complex interaction between power, materials, and social conditions. Consider, too, where this metal came from – did its extraction involve exploitation? The very substance carries a history of labor and global trade. Editor: So, viewing it through a materialist lens connects Cromwell, the artisan, and the resources from the Earth in one perspective. Thanks, I definitely have a new understanding now! Curator: Indeed. This single object becomes a nexus of interconnected systems, inviting us to question traditional narratives about history and art.