Karel Gustaaf Adolf X, gekroond tot koning van Zweden 1654

Editor: This medal, made of silver, depicts Karel Gustaaf Adolf X, crowned King of Sweden in 1654. The relief carving makes it seem almost otherworldly. What visual language stands out to you? Curator: What immediately strikes me is the duality present on the medal. One side shows a profile of King Charles X, his name boldly inscribed, and the other, an allegorical scene. Consider that the scene is intentionally drawing parallels: The coronation echoes divinely ordained authority with the rays of light shining down. How does that symbolism of power speak to you? Editor: I guess it’s trying to say his power comes from God, so the scene showing the coronation is a literal interpretation. The Latin phrase confirms the visual: "To God and Christ". It's an explicit claim to legitimate rule. Curator: Precisely! The visual vocabulary is carefully chosen. Metal as a medium symbolizes permanence and strength, aligning with the desired image of kingship. But what emotions do you think the choice to represent an individual leader on coinage may inspire in viewers today? Editor: Maybe pride or patriotism in viewers from the time period, but now, probably reflections on the nature of power. Knowing history allows the object to continue speaking to the contemporary moment. I see how images can contain so much complexity. Curator: Absolutely. And by exploring the interplay between the symbols and their historical context, we uncover not just the intentions of the artist, but also the echoes they carry through time. Editor: Right, each symbol contributes to its overarching message and how that is communicated across history.