(Brexit, by Jan Paul Kruimel (2019), porcelain, cast, 80 mm., inv. nr. NEPK2432).

In the British nation-wide referendum of June 23, 2016, the majority of those who participated voted to leave the European Union. The subsequent negotiations between Great Britain and the EU about an agreement on the mutual trade relations after the so-called Brexit have so far proceeded extremely slowly and unsatisfactorily, with still no agreement in sight. December 31, 2020 marks the deadline – otherwise there will be no special deal. In that case the economic, social and psychological damage is expected to be large, both for the UK citizens who – as they call it – will then “have their country back”, as for the EU citizens.

For Jan Paul Kruimel the above Brexit saga was an ideal topic for a medal. Several times before he has chosen to mark shocking public events by designing a satirical medal (e.g. the demise of Slavenburg’s Bank, also in the NEPK collection, inv. nr. NEPK0873).

Description obverse: Sketchy map of Europe, with Great Britain elevated above the level of the map

Text obverse: BRITAIN DOESN’T FIT IN ANY MORE

Description reverse: Great Britain all alone and surrounded by borders and defensive works – a sharp pointed ring, a heavy chain and a fortress wall

Text reverse: MORE BORDERS PLEASE, WE’RE BRITISH