Huwelijk van Leopold I
Medium
striking (metalworking)
Dimensions
9.86; 2.7
Rights
Public Domain
About this artwork
Schenking van mevrouw J.M. van Gelder-Nijhoff
Art Historical Context
**Huwelijk van Leopold** (Marriage of Leopold I), crafted in 1832 by Belgian medalist Laurent Joseph Hart, a delicate struck medal celebrating a pivotal royal union. Measuring just 2.7 cm in diameter and weighing 9.86 grams, this small-scale treasure exemplifies 19th-century numismatic, where intricate designs were achieved through metalworking techniques like striking—hammering a die into softened metal for sharp, enduring relief. The medal commemorates the wedding of Leopold I, Belgium's first king, to Princess Louise of Orléans on August 9, 1832, mere months after Belgian independence from the Netherlands in 1830. Such medals were popular tokens of national pride, distributed to mark dynastic milestones and foster loyalty to the new monarchy. Hart's precise engraving likely captures regal portraits or symbolic motifs, blending neoclassical elegance with romantic patriotism. Generously donated by Mrs. J.M. van Gelder-Nijhoff, this piece highlights the cultural role of medals as affordable art, bridging fine craftsmanship and historical memory. A charming glimpse into Europe's shifting political landscape!