Nomos 12

LOW COUNTRIES, Spanish Netherlands. Wigle “Viglius” Aytta van Zwichem, 1507-1577. Medal (Silver, gilt, 54mm, 38.16 g 12), an original cast by J. Jonghelinck, Antwerp or Brussels, 1556. VIGLIVS ZVICHEMVS PRÆSES SEC CON CÆS Z REG MA Bare-headed and bearded bust of Aytta to left, wearing small ruff and robes with a heavy fur collar; on the truncation, ÆT XLIX. Rev. VITA MORTALIA VIGILIA (= mortal life is vigilant) Table covered by an ornate cloth and, on top, an hourglass, a burning candle and a book inscribed DE/VS//OP/MA (=God the best and greatest); below, cartouche bearing the date 1556. Ehrend (Speyer) 5/49. Lanna III, 461. Simonis p. 84 and pl. VII, 1.5. Van Loon I, p. 43. A medal of exceptionally fine quality. Fields polished and with contemporary gilding. Extremely fine.

Ex UBS 72, 5 September 2007, 257.

Viglius was a Frisian jurist of great ability who ultimately became one of Charles V’s most important ministers, being president of the privy council in Brussels. When Charles died Wigle wanted to retire but was persuaded by Philip II to remain and, in 1559, become a chief advisor to Margaret of Parma, the regent. This medal was produced at the time when Viglius was at the height of his power and influence.