The Burmah Medal (1852–55), granted by the government of India, and now generally known as the Indian Medal

William Wyon, 1850

MEDIUMBronze
DIMENSIONSDiameter: 1 7/16 in. (37 mm)
LOCATIONThe Metropolitan Museum of Art
COLLECTIONEuropean Sculpture and Decorative Arts
CULTUREBritish
CREDIT LINEMuseum Accession

This bronze medal, designed by the celebrated Royal Mint chief engraver William Wyon, commemorates military service in Burma and showcases his mastery of Neoclassical medallic art.

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ABOUT THIS WORK

This bronze medal, known as 'The Burmah Medal' or 'The Indian Medal,' was designed by William Wyon, the esteemed chief engraver at the Royal Mint. Created in 1850, it was granted by the government of India to commemorate military campaigns. Wyon, a prominent figure in Neoclassicism and a master of relief sculpture, was renowned for his prolific output and artistic skill in coinage and medallic art. His work often featured elegant, classical designs, influenced by artists like John Flaxman. The medal exemplifies Wyon's expertise in capturing intricate details on a small scale, a skill he honed through designing numerous coins for British monarchs like George IV, William IV, and Queen Victoria, as well as other significant medals for institutions like the Royal Academy and the Great Exhibition. This piece reflects his enduring legacy as a leading engraver of his time, whose designs even influenced early British postage stamps.

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What to Notice

1

The crisp, classical portrait on the obverse

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The intricate details of the reverse design

3

The precise lettering and date

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Audio Deep Dive

This bronze medal, designed by the celebrated Royal Mint chief engraver William Wyon, commemorates military service in Burma and showcases his mastery of Neocl…

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THE ARTIST
William Wyon 1795–1851 · British Empire

William Wyon, Chief Engraver at the Royal Mint, left an indelible mark on British coinage and even the world's first adhesive postage stamp, the Penny Black.

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