Witnesses: Emigre Medallists In Britain

Uncover the Invaluable Role Played by Artists From Abroad in the Development of British Medallic Art. On Display Are Medals That Span Six Centuries, Documenting Significant Historical Moments and Commemorating Famous British Figures.

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This new exhibition uses objects to tell an international story, as it explores the motivations that brought artists to Britain and the ways in which they enlivened this country’s medallic landscape.

The earliest works in the exhibition are from Elizabethan England. It was the Dutch artist Steven van Herwijck who introduced the art of the medal, already well established on this continent, to Britain’s urban elite. Van Herwijck’s first visit to England was of short duration, but three years later he returned with his wife and children. Medals have been made continuously in this country ever since. One of the star objects on display will be a spectacular Waterloo medal conceived by 19th-century Italian gem engraver Benedetto Pistrucci. This medal took 30 years to complete and bears the image of the four allied sovereigns George, Prince Regent, Francis II of Austria, Alexander I of Russia and King Frederick William III of Prussia.

Although the story of each medallist who arrived over the centuries is unique, for many a position at the Royal Mint was coveted and considered the ultimate goal. Pistrucci was successful in this ambition as he arrived from Italy in 1815 and became Chief Medallist at the Royal Mint. Today Pistrucci remains a renowned medallist and coin-engraver, known for producing a number of famous designs during his career, most notably the George and Dragon for the sovereign.