Geboorte van Tsaar Peter I de Grote 1672 1672

Peter Paul Werner created this silver medal, celebrating the birth of Tsar Peter the First of Russia. It encapsulates key social and cultural contexts of 17th-century Russia. The medal’s imagery creates meaning through visual codes deeply rooted in Russian history and imperial ambition. One side depicts Tsar Michael and his wife, signifying dynastic continuity. The reverse shows an angel presenting the infant Peter to a crowned female figure, likely representing Russia itself, promising a future of greatness. The Latin inscriptions, common in European courts, reflect Russia's aspiration to be seen as a major European power. Consider the institutional history: medals like these were often commissioned by the court to disseminate a particular image of power and legitimacy. Understanding this piece requires knowledge of the Romanov dynasty, Russia’s relationship with Europe, and the symbolic language of political imagery. Historians consult a variety of sources, from state records to personal correspondence, to unpack the layers of meaning embedded in such objects. The medal is more than just a commemoration; it's a carefully constructed statement about Russia’s destiny.