Eerste zitting van de volksvertegenwoordiging

About this artwork

Bronzen penning. Voorzijde: borststuk man binnen omschrift. Keerzijde: roedebundel met bijl, bekroond metvrijheidsmuts temidden van opschriften binnen omschrift

Art Historical Context

**Eerste Zitting van de Volksverteiging** (1831) by M. Borrel is a finely bronze medal, measuring just 4.1 cm in diameter weighing 31.57. This petite yet powerful artifact captures a pivotal moment in early Belgian history through its dual-sided design. The obverse features a detailed bust of a man encircled by an inscription, evoking the portrait tradition of classical numismatics. On the reverse, a fasces—a bundle of rods with an axe, symbolizing magisterial authority from ancient Rome—is crowned by a Phrygian liberty cap, surrounded by further inscriptions, blending emblems of unity, strength, and newfound freedom. Created in the wake of Belgium's 1830 Revolution against Dutch rule, the medal commemorates the first session of the *volksvertegenwoordiging* (House of Representatives) in 1831. This assembly marked the birth of modern parliamentary democracy in the newly independent nation, as the National Congress finalized the constitution and elected Leopold I as king. Such medals were popular in 19th-century Europe for celebrating political milestones, serving as wearable propaganda and personal mementos. Borrel's mastery of the striking technique—hammering metal into a die under high pressure—produces sharp relief and intricate details on this bronze *penning*. As a snapshot of revolutionary fervor, it highlights how art metalworking democratized grand historical narratives, making symbols of liberty accessible to all. A true gem for numismatics enthusiasts!