Overlijden van Edmond Willem van Dam van Isselt

About this artwork

Schenking van mevrouw J.M. van Gelder-Nijhoff

Art Historical Context

### Death of Edmond Willem van Dam Isselt Created in 1860 by Dutch artist Karel Wiener, *Overlijden van Edmond van Dam van Isselt (Death of Edmond Willem van Dam Isselt) is a commemorative medallion honoring the passing of a notable figure from a prominent Dutch family. This intimate artwork, with its 6.3 cm diameter substantial 76.41 g weight, captures somber elegance of 19th-century art, reflecting Victorian-era customs of preserving memory through finely crafted objects. Wiener employed the striking technique in metalworking—a precise method where a die is hammered or pressed into softened metal to create raised relief designs. This labor-intensive process allowed for intricate details, making struck medals prized for their durability and lifelike portraits. Such pieces were common in the Netherlands during the mid-1800s, serving as personal tributes exchanged among families and elites to immortalize loved ones. Generously donated by Mrs. J.M. van Gelder-Nijhoff, this medallion offers a window into Dutch bourgeois culture, blending artistry with emotional resonance. Its survival highlights the enduring value of metalwork in storytelling, inviting visitors to reflect on lives lost and legacies preserved.