Beloningspenning voor de burgerwacht bij het bezoek van Willem IV aan Amsterdam 1747 1747

This silver medal was created by Johann Conrad Marmé in 1747 to commemorate William IV's visit to Amsterdam. It provides a glimpse into the complex social dynamics of the Dutch Republic at the time. The medal depicts a female figure, likely a representation of the city of Amsterdam, sitting peacefully under a tree. The inscription on the reverse side dedicates the medal to the citizens who kept watch during the Prince of Orange’s visit, highlighting the role of the citizenry in maintaining order and supporting the ruling class. These types of medals served as symbols of allegiance and were often distributed amongst privileged citizens. But what about those excluded from this honor, such as the poor or marginalized? What did it mean to be part of the ‘burgerwacht’ or civil guard, and who was barred from participation based on their gender, race, or social standing? The medal evokes a sense of civic pride, but we might ask ourselves, whose pride was being celebrated and whose voices were being excluded?