Tweede eeuwfeest van de Reformatie 1717

This silver medal, commemorating the Second Centenary of the Reformation, was created in 1717 by an anonymous artist. The Protestant Reformation, initiated by Martin Luther in 1517, fractured Western Christendom and reshaped European politics and society. This medal embodies the religious and political fervor of the era. It's a small object, yet it speaks volumes about identity and power. The images and text articulate the intense emotions and loyalties connected to religious identity at that time. How did people experience the Reformation? It was more than just a theological debate; it was a personal and communal struggle, shaping lives, families, and communities. This medal not only memorializes the Reformation but also actively participates in constructing and perpetuating its narrative. It’s a reminder of how historical events continue to resonate, influencing our identities and shaping our collective memory.