Ridderorden uit Parma en Polen 1843

Editor: This print from 1843 by Willem Charles Magnenat showcases a series of decorative, geometric shapes, apparently orders from Parma and Poland. I find it strangely beautiful in its precision, like a botanical study, but of… medals? What do you make of it? Curator: "Botanical study of medals," I adore that! It does have that meticulous quality, doesn’t it? It makes me think of someone painstakingly documenting specimens. What I see here is an attempt to capture not just the form, but the spirit of nobility. These aren’t merely geometric shapes; they are symbols loaded with power, history, and a kind of romantic ideal. Magnenat’s precision actually elevates these objects into something almost holy. It's like he's saying, "Look closely, there’s a whole world encoded within these lines and curves!" Do you feel that coming through? Editor: I definitely see the symbolism now, but “holy”? Is that the right word? They still just seem like, well, fancy bling to me. Curator: Perhaps "revered" is a better term. Magnenat treats them not just as ornaments but as embodiments of honour. Remember that in the 19th century, such emblems visually signaled power, legitimacy, social hierarchies... It was an elaborate and quite serious game. Each cross and star held significance, announcing one's allegiance and status. This print acts like a key unlocking that visual language. And think about *why* create prints such as this? For spreading an iconography, for a deeper, maybe wider grasp of these 'symbols'. Editor: I see, like a visual guide. I never really thought about medals having such a complex language. Curator: Exactly! It encourages one to dig a little deeper into what may seem purely ornamental. It prompts questions, as well. We can see the beautiful and less pleasant elements within symbols of power. This feels to me a powerful, and perhaps timely consideration.