Vijfentwintigjarig regeringsjubileum van Willem III, koning der Nederlanden, penning vervaardigd uit munt van een gulden met op keerzijde embleem van vrijmetselarij 1849 - 1874

Editor: This small metal piece commemorates the twenty-fifth anniversary of King Willem III's reign. Made by Johannes Petrus Schouberg, it cleverly uses a cut-out coin! The reverse side even features an emblem of Freemasonry, how fascinating. The level of detail is striking for such a small object. What can you tell me about the significance of producing commemorative art like this? Curator: Well, these commemorative medals, particularly those distributed on jubilees, played a significant role in shaping public perception of the monarchy. How do you think distributing these kinds of objects affected public perception? Editor: I imagine it visually connected the people to their leader? Like, having a piece of the monarchy. Almost like propaganda, but perhaps…more celebratory? Curator: Precisely. It's more than just celebratory; it’s a strategic tool for solidifying power. It puts the King in the pockets and around the necks of the people, literally. Moreover, the Freemason emblem connects Willem to a broader, more enlightened sphere – something deeply tied to the burgeoning bourgeoisie in the Netherlands at that time. What statement do you think Willem was trying to convey, connecting himself to Freemasonry? Editor: Perhaps signaling a progressive, intellectual reign? Being seen as modern, and open-minded? Curator: Exactly. The elite embraced these notions, helping cement support, and this symbolism made its way into mainstream visual culture. The fact it was made from a circulating coin is also interesting. Editor: Yes! What's the implication of using a guilder? Curator: The act of altering a unit of currency to create this medal implies that the very wealth of the nation is interwoven with the reign of Willem III. This coin is transformed, yes, but it also suggests that the monarchy is ever-present and inextricably linked with Dutch identity and prosperity. What do you make of it overall? Editor: It’s fascinating to think how something so small can carry so much historical and political weight. I wouldn’t have thought that something this size had such meaning, or that such a small medal could shape perception. Thanks for shedding light on that!