In Memory of the Visit of the Emperor and Empress of the French to the City of London, April 19, 1855
1855
Medium
Bronze, struck
Dimensions
Diameter: 3 in. (7.6 cm)
Classification
Medals and Plaquettes
Culture
British, London
Department
European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of the Corporation of the City of London, 1908
Accession Number
08.53.7
Tags
Art Historical Context
This bronze medal, struck in 1855 by British medallist Benjamin Wyon, commemorates the state visit of Emperor Napoleon III and Empress Eugénie of France to London on April 19. The event marked a significant moment of Anglo-French diplomacy during the Crimean War, symbolizing the strengthening alliance between the two nations against Russia. As a work in the Metropolitan Museum’s collection of European Sculpture and Decorative Arts, the piece reflects the City of London’s tradition of honoring distinguished guests through lasting tokens of appreciation. Wyon, a member of a prominent family of ...
About the Artist
Benjamin Wyon · 1802–1858
British, London 1802–1858 London