Two Beggars’ Medals 1566

These two Beggars' Medals were made of silver, likely die-struck, in the 16th century by Jacques Jonghelinck. They show a portrait of William the Silent, a key figure in the Dutch Revolt against Spanish rule, and a beggar's bowl with two clasped hands. The material, silver, is precious, but here it takes on a subversive meaning. These medals were worn by the Geuzen, Dutch nobles who opposed Spanish rule. The process of minting these medals was a way of mass-producing political statements. It allowed for the widespread dissemination of a message of resistance, transforming a symbol of poverty into a badge of honor. It is an early example of political propaganda using wearable objects. The Beggars' Medals cleverly invert notions of value and status, challenging the clear distinctions that are often made between high art, craft, and political activism.