Nederlaag van Lodewijk XIV, koning van Frankrijk in de slag bij Malplaquet

About this artwork

Behold this diminutive yet powerful medal, *Nederlaag van Lode XIV, koning van Frankrijk de slag bij Malpla* (Defeat of Louis, King of France at the Battle of Malpla), struck by German engraver Christian Wermuth in 1709. At just 2.7 cm in diameter, this finely crafted piece exemplifies the precision of contemporary metalworking techniques, where intricate battle scenes were hammered or pressed into metal to create portable commemorations. The artwork immortalizes the pivotal Battle of Malplaquet (September 11, 1709), a grueling clash in the War of the Spanish Succession. Allied forces under the Duke of Marlborough and Prince Eugene inflicted a tactical defeat on Louis XIV's army, though at enormous cost—over 20,000 Allied casualties. Wermuth's design served as potent propaganda, celebrating the setback for the French Sun King and bolstering Dutch and Allied morale amid prolonged European conflict. As a gift from J.M. van Gelder-Nijhoff to our collection, this medal not only showcases Wermuth's mastery of miniature historical narrative but also reflects the era's fusion of artistry and politics, turning tiny metal discs into symbols of national triumph.