Victories of Maurice de Saxe, Marshal General of France

Dashing, indefatigable, and brilliant Maurice de Saxe (1696-1760) was one of the greatest generals of the eighteenth century. The illegitimate son of Augustus II the Strong, Elector of Saxony, the German born Maurice served under several monarchs, earning his reputation as a commander for his valorous exploits. His victories for King Louis XV (b. 1710; r. 1715-74) during the War of the Austrian Succession (1740-48) secured France’s dominance on the continent. For these achievements in 1747, the king awarded him the august title, Marshal General of France.

This medal was struck in 1747 to commemorate Maurice de Saxe’s accomplishment and ensure his enduring fame. He is depicted in armor, bearing himself in erect military posture. His composed features and surveilling gaze capture the coolness in battle for which he was renowned. The inscription on the medal’s front (obverse) includes his recently awarded title of Marshal General. The imagery and inscription on the medal’s reverse celebrate the defeat of France’s enemies in the War of the Austrian Succession.

During the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries bronze portrait medals intended for special presentation as gifts were embellished with gold and lacquered in red to increase their beauty and preciousness. The Dassier family of medallists and goldsmiths brought this technique to its utmost refinement.