The Waterloo Medal 1815

This bronze medal depicting George, Prince Regent, was made by Thomas Wyon the Younger in the early 19th century. As a commemorative object, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the politics of imagery in England at the time. The medal presents George as a heroic figure, his profile encircled by a laurel wreath evoking classical ideals of leadership. But we must remember, this was a time of social and political upheaval. As such, this medal can be seen as an attempt to solidify the image of the monarchy in an era of revolution and reform. To fully understand the medal's meaning, we need to look at who commissioned it, who produced it, and who was its intended audience. By consulting historical records, letters, and other documents, we can begin to understand the complex social and institutional forces that shaped its creation. The interpretation of art hinges on historical context.