FRIENDSHIP MEDAL

Müller, Philipp Heinrich: Germany, ca.1710, Silver, 55 mm
Obv: Abraham welcoming Lot    WIR SIND GEBRUDER. (We Are Brothers) GEN.13.V.8 (And Abraham said unto Lot, "Let there be no strife, and I pray thee, between me and thee, and between my herdmen and thy herdmen; for we be brethren")
Rev: David and Jonathan    ICH WILL DIR THUN WAS DEIN HERZ BEGEHRT. (I Will Do What Your Heart Desires) SAM.20.V.4. (Whatsoever thy soul desireth, I will even do it for thee)
Signed:  P.H.M.
Ref: Foster, 886; Leu Erl. 2258;  Europese Penningen # 842;  Friedenberg, p. 94;  Weiss BW532

This one of several so-called Friendship Medals based on the Old Testament made during the 17th and 18th centuries.  Others include those by Christian Wermuth (David and Jonathan) and Georg Hautsch (Rachel and Ruth, and Joseph and Daniel).  In addition to the medal shown here, Muller made one of the rather unusual combination of Jacob and Esau (Friedenberg).

LINK to painting Departing of David and Jonathan by Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn (from Olga's Gallery)

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