Maria van Hongarije, landvoogdes der Nederlanden 1555

This bronze medal depicting Maria van Hongarije, landvoogdes der Nederlanden, was created anonymously using the technique of striking. This process involves using dies to stamp a design onto a metal blank. The resulting image, whether intricate portraiture or symbolic imagery, is a testament to the skill of the die cutter and the power of mechanization. Notice the way the metal yields to pressure, capturing fine details in relief. On one side, Maria’s likeness is sharply defined, while the reverse showcases a ship under a radiant sun, emblems of governance and prosperity. Medals like this weren't just symbols of status, but also miniature advertisements of power. Their circulation facilitated a wider dissemination of political imagery and ideology. The very act of minting – a process deeply rooted in control and standardization – reflects the consolidation of power during this era. Understanding the medal, therefore, requires appreciating how its material and method of production intertwine with the social context of its creation.