William IV with reverse of London Bridge
1831
Medium
Bronze
Dimensions
Diameter: 8 1/8 in. (206 mm)
Classification
Medals and Plaquettes
Culture
British
Department
European Sculpture and Decorative Arts
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Assunta Sommella Peluso, Ada Peluso, and Romano I. Peluso, in memory of Ignazio Peluso, 2000
Accession Number
2000.224.14
Tags
Art Historical Context
This striking bronze medal by Benjamin Wyon captures King William IV in profile on the obverse, paired with a view of London Bridge on the reverse. Created in 1831, shortly after William’s accession, it reflects the British tradition of commemorative medallions that celebrated both royal succession and major civic projects. Wyon, a member of the renowned family of engravers and Chief Engraver of the Seals, brought refined detail and balanced composition to the circular format. The reverse image of London Bridge alludes to the construction of the new stone bridge designed by John Rennie, whose...
About the Artist
Benjamin Wyon · 1802–1858
British, London 1802–1858 London