Het drievoudige verbond tussen Engeland, Frankrijk en de Republiek 1596

This silver coin, made by Gerard van Bylaer around 1596, commemorates the alliance between England, France, and the Dutch Republic. The coin visually encodes the political dynamics of its time. The arrangement of heraldic symbols isn't just decorative; it's a deliberate statement about power and allegiance. Produced in the Netherlands, this object speaks to the Republic’s struggle for independence from Spain, relying on alliances with other European powers for support. The coin serves as a propaganda tool, solidifying the image of a unified front against a common enemy. Institutions like the mint played a crucial role, not only in producing currency but also in disseminating political messages. To fully understand an object like this, we delve into archival records, political treatises, and diplomatic correspondence. The meaning of art is never fixed; it's a product of the social and institutional forces that shape its creation and reception.