Derde eeuwfeest van de inname van Den Briel 1872

This commemorative medal was made by Johan Philip Menger in 1872, likely of bronze, to celebrate the third centenary of the Capture of Brielle. Look closely, and you'll see that the material itself speaks volumes. The flat, circular form resulted from the metal being struck between two dies. The bronze, a common material for medals, lends a sense of durability and historical weight, intended to last for generations. The medal features symbols and inscriptions related to the historical event. The design has been achieved through a process of relief engraving. The precision of the die-making speaks to skilled craftsmanship and a system of production geared towards commemorating important historical and political events. The relative ease with which such multiples can be made speaks to the dynamics of mass production and consumption in the 19th century. Let's appreciate the value of this small object, understanding its production and the wider context in which it was created, which challenges traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.