Leopold I en Louisa Maria

About this artwork

Bronzen penning. Voorzijde: borststuk man met lauwerkrans en vrouw met diadeem. Keerzijde: interieur van kathedraal van Laken tussen opschriften; afsnede: opschrift

Art Historical Context

**Leopold I en Louisa Maria** is a finely crafted bronze medal struck in 1865 by Leopold Wiener, a renowned Belgianallist known for his intricate portrait work. Measuring 7.5 cm in diameter weighing nearly 188 grams, this piece exemplifies 19th-century metalworking through the "striking" technique, a die is hammered into softened metal to create raised, detailed reliefs. The ob features busts of a man adorned with a laurel wreathsymbolizing victory and authority—and a woman wearing a diadem, evoking regal elegance, likely representing King Leopold I of Belgium and his queen consort, Louise-Marie of Orléans. The reverse showcases the grand interior of the Cathedral of Laeken (now the Basilica of Koekelberg area, but historically tied to royal ceremonies in Brussels), framed by inscriptions, with additional text along the edge. Created in the year of Leopold I's death, this medal serves as a poignant commemoration of the royal couple, blending neoclassical portraiture with architectural fidelity to honor Belgium's early monarchy amid its nation-building era. Wiener's mastery shines in the medal's sharp detailing and balanced composition, making it a gem of Belgian numismatic art. Such pieces were prized by collectors for their dual role as historical artifacts and miniature sculptures, offering visitors a tangible link to 19th-century European royalty.

About the Artist

Leopold Wiener · 1823–1891

Belgian, Venlo 1823–1891 Brussels