Schietwedstrijd te Geneve 1882 1882

This bronze medal, commemorating a shooting competition in Geneva in 1882, made by an artist named G. Richard, embodies the spirit of craftsmanship and civic pride. The medal's intricate details, from the soldier with his rifle to the architecture, were achieved through techniques like die-striking or casting. Notice how the material's inherent qualities—its weight and the way it takes a cast impression—add to the medal's sense of permanence and value. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, this medal speaks volumes about the social and cultural context of its time. It was likely produced in a workshop setting, employing skilled artisans who took pride in their work. The medal thus represents a tangible link to the culture of craftsmanship, when the means of production were more closely tied to individual skill and dedication. Understanding this medal through the lens of material and making invites us to reconsider the traditional hierarchy between fine art and craft.