George II, from the English Monarchs series 1731 - 1732

Curator: Here we have Jean Dassier’s bronze medal, "George II, from the English Monarchs series," dating back to 1731 or 1732. It resides here at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Editor: The first thing that strikes me is how weighty it looks, even in a digital image! It possesses a certain seriousness, but it is softened by the curls. I think those wild locks say everything! It's all so... symbolic. Curator: Exactly! The medal operates in this fascinating space between portraiture and symbolism, right? Neoclassical art frequently looks toward this idealized representation of power, especially in portraits of royalty. That classical wreath intertwined in his wig is almost comically at odds with that decidedly baroque mountain of curls! Editor: Absolutely! I’d say it’s quite the intentional choice—marrying old symbols with new fashion. That juxtaposition underscores a desire to appear timeless, yes? Even the lettering framing his profile speaks of legacy and lineage; that desire to etch his mark—literally, into history. Medals have such powerful permanence as objects! Curator: Indeed! These kinds of engravings acted as historical records but also functioned almost like press releases in their time. Think of them as the 18th-century version of curating your public persona on social media. They served not only to commemorate but to persuade. Editor: So, this isn’t just about historical record-keeping; it's a meticulously constructed narrative—every detail from the laurel wreath to the determined set of his jaw! It's so curious to observe the ways powerful leaders throughout the ages, regardless of the era or location, have attempted to shape perception through artistic devices and objects. The layers upon layers of meaning embedded within its materiality! Fascinating. Curator: Definitely. This medal allows us to peer into that enduring quest for lasting legacy, crafted quite literally in metal!