Queen Wilhelmina, prince Hendrik & Queen Emma 1898
Bronze is an alloy of copper and tin. The ratio of these gives bronze its color.
Bronze was discovered around 3000 BC and was then used to make weapons, tools, and jewellery. This period is now called the Bronze Age.
A bronze object often develops a green patina over time, and the color of bronze also changes with frequent contact.
The addition of tin to copper gives it a lower melting point, making it very suitable for making statues and weapons.
The oldest tin-bronze objects have been found in Iran and China, among other places.
Even today, bronze is still used for making church bells, medals, etc.
There is a superstition that whoever touches a bronze statue will experience good luck, improve their love life, and have their wishes come true.
Spelter is an alloy of zinc and lead, similar to bronze but softer; it is also called artificial bronze.
Bronze statues, medals, and other items have been made of many royal and famous figures, including members of our Royal Family.
Our collection includes several examples, including medals and busts of Queen Wilhelmina and others.
Below are some photos.
bronze medal death of Prince Hendrik, son of king Willem II & Anna Paulowna 1879.
Bronze figurine King Willem II 1949 in memoriam
Bronze bust of Wilhelmina by Johan Wortman and Spelter figurine of Wilhelmina both 1898
Bust Queen Wilhelmina 1890 & plaque inauguration Queen Wilhelmina 1898
medal ANWB parade the Haque inauguration queen Wilhelmina 1898
Bronze sculpture Queen Wilhelmina 1898
Busts wedding Queen Wilhelmina & prince Hendrik 1901
Plaque birth princess Juliana 1909
Medals silver jubilee 1923 Wilhelmina & Prince Bernhard visit to the West 1950
Medals inauguration Queen Beatrix 1980
