Eagle Astride Two Cannons (The Artillery) [reverse] 1601

This bronze medal was crafted by Philippe Danfrie II around 1601. Instantly, the composition strikes us with its rigid symmetry and the imposing figure of an eagle perched atop two cannons. The eagle, rendered with careful detail, spreads its wings, dominating the scene with its powerful presence. The cannons below are meticulously depicted, their forms reflecting the era's military might. The background features a city, suggesting a landscape of power and dominion. The medal operates as a sign, where each element contributes to a narrative of authority. The eagle, a symbol of power, combined with the artillery, speaks to military strength and governance. The circular form of the medal contains these symbols, framing them within a closed, controlled space. It's a symbolic representation of power, contained and concentrated. Each element serves to reinforce a message of sovereignty and dominance, reflecting the socio-political landscape of its time.