Medaille met portret van Achille Roche after 1831

Achille Collas created this portrait medal of Achille Roche in the 19th century. The medal presents us with more than just a likeness; it provides a glimpse into the values and self-perceptions of the bourgeoisie during this period. The choice of a medal as a medium is itself telling. Medals were often used to commemorate individuals of note, aligning Roche with a tradition of honoring significant figures. But who decides who is worthy of such commemoration? During the 19th century, as the middle class rose in prominence, their self-image and desire for recognition grew. This medal speaks volumes about the aspirations and the cultural aesthetics of the time. It invites us to reflect on how societies choose to immortalize their members and what those choices reveal about their values.