Inname van de citadel van Rijssel door de bondgenoten 1708

Curator: Here we have a commemorative medal, "Inname van de citadel van Rijssel door de bondgenoten," or "The capture of the citadel of Lille by the Allies", crafted in 1708 by John Croker. It's rendered in metal, showcasing relief sculpture on both sides. Editor: It has an interesting contrast. On one face there is a queen in regal attire and on the reverse an angel standing beside a rather empty shield. The figures have such dramatic chiaroscuro for a medium one generally sees as flat. Curator: The interplay of light and shadow you note is quite intentional. On the obverse, we see a portrait of Queen Anne, meticulously detailed, from her crown to the delicate folds of her dress. Observe how the inscription encircles her, functioning as both a frame and a contextual element. Editor: The figure on the reverse seems to blend classical and Christian iconography. The angel carries the suggestion of triumph, perhaps an allegory of the victory being celebrated, protecting what would be the Coat of arms? Lille maybe? Curator: Exactly. Note the fleur-de-lis positioned just above that blank shield you mention. Its symmetry and repetition are striking against the more organic forms of the angel. Semiotically, that suggests its importance as a ruling city, despite this side of the work not including any immediately apparent figures of royal importance. Editor: Given the piece’s historical context, that alliance surely speaks volumes. We’re reminded that power and victory are always intertwined with deeper cultural meanings. The way this small object can open so many historical threads—it is truly an achievement. Curator: I agree. What appears at first glance to be merely decorative in fact holds an entire narrative about conflict, sovereignty, and alliance. A miniature, Baroque marvel.