Gedenkpenning vereerd aan de wachthebbende burgers van Amsterdam, ter herinnering aan het verblijf van Prins Willem IV te Amsterdam op 11 en 12 mei 1747

Editor: This is a commemorative medal from 1747 by Johann Conrad Marmé, honoring Prince Willem IV's visit to Amsterdam. It's made of metal and has relief engravings. It strikes me as quite formal, almost stoic, despite the celebratory nature of the event. What stands out to you when you look at this piece? Curator: Oh, the stories these small objects can whisper, eh? I find myself drawn to the allegory unfolding on the obverse. The altar ablaze, perhaps a beacon of loyalty, contrasted with the serene figure beneath the orange tree. The orange tree for the House of Orange of course. Tell me, what does that seated figure evoke for you? Is it Peace? Justice? Perhaps something else entirely? Editor: I see her holding what looks like a fasces? So perhaps she represents civic power or authority? And the fire – definitely a symbol of something like ardent loyalty or patriotism. Curator: Exactly! The Dutch burghers are basically saying: "we are in favour, so says civic authority, which flourishes alongside ardent national fervour!" Do you see the motto etched around the edges? The relief feels almost… playful. I keep expecting the goddess to wink. What secrets does she hold, eh? It’s interesting to me how potent symbols, like the orange tree, can be. It transcends the mundane. Editor: It definitely makes you think about how objects, even medals, can be used to communicate complex ideas about power and loyalty. Thanks! Curator: A potent little piece of propaganda. Always bubbling beneath the surface in Dutch society! Perhaps all society, really! My pleasure!