Margaretha van Parma, landvoogdes der Nederlanden 1567

This silver medal depicting Margaretha van Parma, governor of the Netherlands, was made by Jacques Jonghelinck, likely around the mid- to late-16th century. The medal is not just a portrait; it's a statement about power and authority. The image of Margaretha, a powerful woman in a male-dominated era, serves as a potent symbol of leadership. The reverse side, with its allegorical figure of Justice, reinforces this message, linking her rule to concepts of order and righteousness. Medals like these served multiple purposes in the 16th century. They were often used as diplomatic gifts, commemorative objects, or even as a form of political propaganda. By studying these objects and the contexts in which they were created and circulated, we can gain valuable insights into the social and political dynamics of the time. To fully understand this medal, we need to delve into the history of the Habsburg Netherlands and the role of figures like Margaretha van Parma. A good starting point would be the Royal Archives in Brussels.