Eerste verjaardag van de Belgische revolutie

About this artwork

diameter 1,8 cm x gewicht 2,99 gr

Art Historical Context

### Eerste Verjaardag van de Revolutie Crafted in 1831 by M. Borrel, this petite commemorative medal—measuring just 1.8 cm in diameter and weighing 2.99 grams—celebrates the *Eerste verjaardag de Belgische revolutie*, "First Anniversary of the Belgian Revolution." Struck through metalworking techniques, it a pivotal moment in European history when Belgian revolutionaries successfully broke away from the United Kingdom of the Netherlands in 1830, forging an independent nation amid widespread uprisings for liberal reforms and national identity. The medal's modest scale belies its cultural weight: such small struck objects were popular in the 19th century as affordable tokens of patriotism, often distributed to supporters or worn as lapel pins. Borrel's craftsmanship highlights the precision of die-striking, where intricate designs are hammered into metal under high pressure, ensuring durability and fine detail despite the tiny size. Produced mere months after Belgium's provisional independence in 1830 and just before the London Conference formalized it in 1831, this piece reflects the era's fervent nationalism. Today, it offers a tangible glimpse into how ordinary citizens marked revolutionary triumphs, blending artistry with political fervor in an intimate format perfect for personal commemoration.