Overlijden van Cornelis van Bommel

About this artwork

diameter 7,5 cm x gewicht 179,23 gr

Art Historical Context

Behold the poignant *Overlijden van Cornelis Bommel* (Death of Cornelis van Bom), a finely crafted medal struck by Belgian artist Jacob Wiener in 2. Measuring just 7.5 cm in diameter and weighing .23 grams, this metalwork exemplifies the 19th-century tradition of commemorative medallions, which served as portable tributes to notable figures and events. Wiener, a skilled engraver known for his detailed portraiture, captures a moment of historical reverence in this compact yet substantial piece. The title honors Cornelis van Bommel, a prominent Dutch politician and advocate whose passing likely prompted this memorial five years later. Struck medals like this one highlight the precision of metalworking techniques: a hardened steel die is pressed into softened metal under immense pressure, producing sharp, high-relief designs that endure for generations. This method allowed for intricate details—perhaps Van Bommel's likeness or symbolic motifs of mourning—making medals both artistic objects and personal keepsakes. In the context of mid-19th-century Europe, such works bridged fine art and craftsmanship, democratizing memorials beyond grand monuments. Visitors, imagine holding this weighty token of legacy in your palm—a testament to Wiener's mastery and Van Bommel's enduring impact.

About the Artist

Jacob Wiener · 1815–1899

Jacob Wiener (1815–1899), also known as Jacques Wiener, was a Belgian medallist and engraver of exceptional skill whose work left an indelible mark on 19th-century European numismatic art. Born on February 27, 1815, in Hoerstgen (in present-day Germany), Wiener would become one of Belgium's most distinguished engravers, contributing significantly to the young nation's cultural identity through his...