Witte richtvlag met rode, gekroonde W 1831

This White signalling flag with a red, crowned W was created anonymously. Flags, with their basic construction and potent symbolism, are a fascinating area for studying the relationship between art and manufacturing. The white field of this flag looks to be made of simple woven cloth, bordered with red trim and corner tassels. We don't know the precise method of production, but we can guess that the 'W' and crown were applied using a stencil, or perhaps with a carved block printing process. What is most remarkable about this object is its function. It was clearly made to convey a message, and to be seen from a distance. Think of all the labor that went into its production, and then its deployment. In a sense, a flag like this does all the work that any artwork does: it signifies, communicates, and gives material expression to belief. It collapses any assumed distinction between art and craft.