Dood van Napoleon Bonaparte, overleden en begraven op St. Helena 1821

This bronze medal, made by Thomason & Jones, commemorates Napoleon Bonaparte's death and burial on St. Helena. Note the laurel wreath encircling Napoleon's profile, a classical symbol of triumph and eternal glory that harkens back to ancient Roman emperors. This motif appears throughout history, adorning victorious leaders and figures of great import. Consider, for instance, its presence in Renaissance paintings celebrating military prowess, where the laurel signifies not just victory but also a connection to the virtues of the classical world. Yet, here, the wreath surrounds a man in death, a poignant twist on its traditional meaning. It speaks to the cyclical nature of fame and the inevitable transience of power. Even in death, Napoleon is framed as a hero, suggesting an enduring, perhaps subconscious, desire to immortalize leaders. The image engages us on a deep level, forcing a confrontation with the complexities of legacy, memory, and the relentless march of time. The laurel, an ancient symbol, resurfaces, perpetually evolving, its significance reshaped by each new historical context.