Slagen bij Quatre-Bras en Waterloo, ter ere van de hertog van Wellington en Blucher 1815

Editor: Here we have a bronze print from 1815, "Battles of Quatre-Bras and Waterloo, in Honor of the Duke of Wellington and Blucher," by Franz Stuckhart. The miniature scale makes it appear like a coin or medal, with detailed relief work. What's your take on this commemorative piece? Curator: This medal isn't simply an aesthetic object; it's a piece of propaganda cast in the afterglow of war. Consider the context: the Napoleonic Wars reshaped Europe. This medal, therefore, isn't just honoring Wellington and Blucher, but also celebrating the restored old order – a patriarchal, monarchical order built on colonial power. What kind of stories do you think this narrative suppresses? Editor: Well, it seems to glorify the victors and erases the perspective and experiences of those who were defeated and colonized people? It seems to reinforce established power structures. Curator: Precisely. Even the seemingly neoclassical style – the emphasis on idealized, stoic figures – it lends a sense of legitimacy to this version of history. Where is the human cost of war in this image? Where are the diverse faces of the soldiers? Think about whose stories get told and whose are omitted. Editor: I see what you mean. It's less about historical accuracy and more about constructing a particular narrative of triumph and authority. So even an object this small can reflect larger power dynamics? Curator: Absolutely. Material culture like this medal served to disseminate particular viewpoints of powerful historical narratives, helping to construct and solidify identities based on nation and class, and reinforcing these sociopolitical structures across generations. Do you see how even celebrations can function as forms of social control? Editor: I do. I had considered this a commemorative token but now I understand that it can function to solidify certain viewpoints or agendas. Thanks!