Duizendvijftigjarige viering van het martelaarschap van St. Rumoldus, patroon van de stad Mechelen 1825

This is a silver medal commemorating the thousand-and-fifty-year celebration of the martyrdom of St. Rumoldus, patron saint of the city of Mechelen, made by Adolphe Jouvenel. Jouvenel, who lived through a period of significant political upheaval in Europe, reflects the changing dynamics of power and identity through this piece. On one side, St. Rumoldus is depicted in profile, his gaze fixed, embodying a sense of stoic resolve and his commitment to his faith. The reverse side presents a female figure seated beside what looks like a shield, possibly symbolizing the city of Mechelen, in allegiance to St. Rumoldus. Consider how Jouvenel uses classical motifs and symbols to convey themes of martyrdom and civic identity. The medal serves not only as a religious icon but also as a cultural artifact, reflecting the complex interplay between religious faith, civic duty, and personal identity in 19th-century Belgium.