Vijftigjarig huwelijk van Henry Levyssohn en Elizabeth Lavino

About this artwork

Schenking van mevrouw J.M. van Gelder-Nijhoff

Art Historical Context

Behold the exquisite *Vijftigjarig huwelijk van Henry Levys en Elizabeth Lavino*50th Wedding Anniversary of Henry Levyssohn Elizabeth Lavino), a medal crafted in 1842 by renowned medalist Jacob Wiener. just 3.9 cm in diameter yet weighing a substantial 317 grams, this intimate metalwork celebrates a golden milestone in the lives of this couple, likely from a prominent Dutch Jewish family, marking their half-century of marriage since around 1792. Such commemorative pieces were cherished 19th-century keepsakes, blending personal sentiment with public artistry. Wiener, a master of the medal genre in the Netherlands, employed the striking technique—hammering a detailed die into softened metal—to achieve crisp portraits and intricate inscriptions. This method allowed for high relief and fine details, elevating the medal beyond mere currency into sculptural art. Rooted in Renaissance traditions but invigorated by Romantic-era personalization, Wiener's work reflects the era's fascination with enduring legacies amid industrial change. Generously donated by Mrs. J.M. van Gelder-Nijhoff, this piece offers a window into 19th-century Dutch social history, where family milestones were immortalized in enduring bronze or silver. A testament to love's longevity, it invites us to ponder the stories etched in metal.

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...