The Burmah Medal, 1824–26
1826
Medium
Bronze
Dimensions
Diameter: 1 7/16 in. (37 mm)
Classification
Medals and Plaquettes
Culture
British
Department
European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Museum Accession
Accession Number
X.14.14
Tags
Art Historical Context
Behold the *Burmah Medal, 4–26*, a finely crafted bronze medallion by William Wyon, the esteemed chief engraver of the Royal Mint. Struck in 1826 to commemorate Britain's victory in the First Anglourmese War, this 37 mm diameter piece honors the soldiers who fought in the grueling campaign against the Kingdom of Burma (modern-day Myanmar). The obverse likely features regal portraits or symbolic emblems, while the reverse the exotic theater of war through motifs like lions—symbols of British strength—alongside soldiers, peacocks (a nod to Burmese royalty), and elephants, capturing the clash of ...
About the Artist
William Wyon · 1795–1851
British, Birmingham 1795–1851 Brighton