Keulen en de kroning van Keizer Karel VII 1742 1742

This silver medal, commemorating the coronation of Emperor Charles VII in 1742, was created by Peter George Wyon. Its circular form, a self-contained universe, is bisected into two distinct yet related images, creating an intriguing visual and symbolic dialogue. On one side, the Emperor’s profile is rendered with meticulous detail. The inscription encircles the portrait, framing the image and emphasizing the Emperor's authority. The reverse side depicts a reclining figure against a cityscape, perhaps personifying the city of Cologne. Here, the textual inscription forms a semiotic ring, grounding the visual narrative within a specific historical and cultural context. The medal's design invites reflection on power, representation, and the relationship between ruler and city. The structure embodies both celebration and nuanced political commentary. It reminds us that art, even in a medium as seemingly straightforward as a medal, can provoke multiple interpretations.