Inname van Bergen (Mons) door Frankrijk op Spanje 1691 1691

Jean Mauger created this lead medal in 1691 to commemorate the French capture of Mons from Spain. The medal reflects the complex power dynamics of 17th-century Europe, where territorial disputes were frequent. On one side, we see a portrait of Louis XIV, King of France, whose reign was characterized by expansionist policies and a desire for absolute power. On the reverse, a female figure symbolizing France stands triumphantly over the defeated Spanish, claiming victory and dominance. Medals like these served as propaganda tools, shaping public perception of events and solidifying the king's authority. The capture of Mons itself involved significant human cost, yet here it's rendered as a symbol of national pride and power. These objects often belie the personal experiences and lived realities of the people impacted by these geopolitical shifts. Ultimately, this medal invites us to reflect on how historical narratives are constructed. It prompts us to consider whose stories are told, whose are left out, and how these choices shape our understanding of the past.