De universiteit van Groningen aan prof Anton Hendriksz

About this artwork

Gouden penning. Voorzijde: Minerva met lier in hand, houdt krans boven hoofd van jongeman; tussen beiden in een altaar, waarop twee kransen liggen binnen omschrift; afsnede: opschrift. Keerzijde: opschrift

Art Historical Context

This gold medal, struck in 1826 by Belgian engraver Jean Henri Simon, was presented by the University of Groningen to Professor Anton Hendriksz. Measuring just 3.3 centimeters in diameter and weighing 28.2 grams, the piece exemplifies the refined art of medal-making, where intricate designs are impressed into precious metal through skilled striking techniques. Such awards were common in early nineteenth-century European universities to honor distinguished scholars. The obverse depicts the Roman goddess Minerva, symbol of wisdom, holding a lyre while crowning a young man with a laurel wreath beside a small altar. This classical imagery underscores the ideals of learning and achievement central to academic life. The reverse carries an inscription detailing the dedication. As both a work of art and a historical document, the medal reflects the neoclassical taste of the period and the university’s tradition of celebrating intellectual contributions through lasting, portable tributes.