Frederik II

About this artwork

diameter 4,6 cm x gewicht 35,49 gr

Art Historical Context

Behold the exquisite struck medal *Frederik II* (1745), crafted by the skilled German metalworker Johann Conrad Marmé. Measuring just 4.6 cm in diameter and weighing35.49 grams, petite yet powerful artwork captures the likeness of Frederick II, the King of Prussia known as Frederick the Great. Struck during the height of his reign, it exemplifies the era's fascination with numismatic portraiture, where rulers were immortalized in miniature metal form to symbolize authority and legacy. The striking technique—hammering a die into a prepared metal blank—allowed for remarkable detail and sharp relief, showcasing Marmé's mastery of precision engraving. Medals like this were not mere coins but coveted art objects, often collected by nobility and scholars. In 1745, amid Frederick's military campaigns in the War of the Austrian Succession, such pieces served as portable emblems of royal prowess, blending artistry with political propaganda. This gem invites us to ponder the intimate scale of 18th-century power: a king's face etched in enduring bronze or silver, whispering tales of ambition and Enlightenment ideals across centuries. A true treasure for any numismatics enthusiast!