Karl Goetz Medal – Kienast 160: “Pact of Malice” (1915) Satirical Medal

Karl Goetz Medal - Kienast 160: "Pact of Malice" (1915)

Bold, symbolic, and unmistakably satirical, Karl Goetz's Kienast 160, titled "Pact of Malice" (Der Bund der Tücke), is a superb example of the artist's ability to blend political caricature with powerful storytelling. Created in 1915, during the height of World War I, the medal critiques the Entente Powers through allegory and mythological references.

The obverse inscription reads "Alliance of Crafty Spite 1915.", setting the tone for Goetz's pointed commentary. The reverse inscription—

"Smite him dead! The Day of Judgment will not ask your reasons. H. v. Kleist."—

adds a dramatic literary flourish, quoting Heinrich von Kleist and capturing the ruthless atmosphere of wartime struggle.

The imagery is rich with symbolic animals representing the major Allied nations:

• cock - France

• lions - Belgium and England

• bear - Russia

• snake - Serbia

• chimera - Japan

An infant wearing a Bersaglieri hat represents Italy, portrayed as young and impressionable ("sucking"), emphasizing the propaganda-driven viewpoint Goetz often dramatized.

Cast in an impressive 80 mm, this medal stands out not only for its size but also for its intensity and layered symbolism. It is one of Goetz's most thematically dense works, capturing the complex alliances and mutual hostilities of the First World War.

Key Features:

• Artist: Karl Goetz

• Catalog reference: Kienast 160 / Opus 160

• Title: "Pact of Malice"

• Year: 1915

• Diameter: 80 mm

• Theme: WWI alliances, political satire, symbolic animal allegory

A commanding and highly expressive piece, Kienast 160 appeals to collectors who appreciate both historical depth and bold artistic interpretation in Goetz's influential medallic legacy.