Driehonderdjarig jubileum van de zogenaamde Keulse Oorkonde en herdenking van de stichting van de "Loge de la Paix" te 's-Gravenhage, honderd jaar geleden, gevierd door de vrijmetselaarsloge "La Bien Aimee" 1835

Curator: Today we're looking at a silver and metal engraving created in 1835 by Johannes Petrus Schouberg. It's titled "Driehonderdjarig jubileum van de zogenaamde Keulse Oorkonde en herdenking van de stichting van de \"Loge de la Paix\" te 's-Gravenhage, honderd jaar geleden, gevierd door de vrijmetselaarsloge \"La Bien Aimee\"." quite a mouthful. Editor: Wow, that's quite a title, but my first thought seeing this, beyond the crazy-long name, is how sterile it looks. Cold, almost...alien. The geometric design and the uniform text really push that feeling. Curator: Indeed. Given the subject matter, it's important to consider this object within the sociopolitical landscape of 19th-century freemasonry. Commemorative pieces like this played a role in constructing and reinforcing a specific historical narrative and fraternal identity. Editor: So it's propaganda then? In the most beautiful, metallic, mysterious way possible. Is it about showing power and unity? The radiating lines behind the triangle almost feel like they’re trying to blast something! Curator: You could interpret it that way. The symbolic weight is undeniably tied to power structures. Masonic imagery, prevalent since the medieval period, draws heavily on geometric and architectural symbolism. Editor: Geometry of power... That triangle, like a coded message within a blazing aura…it feels ancient. Curator: And remember that symbolism here acts to establish a link with a carefully constructed past. This medallion simultaneously evokes the legendary origins of the organization and celebrates its local present in the Hague, with specific anniversaries being commemorated. It serves as a material anchor for ideals of fraternity and historical continuity, ideas about exclusion and identity. Editor: Exclusion…It makes me wonder who *wasn’t* invited to the party this medallion is commemorating. That knowing feels just as much a part of this thing as what it's showing on the surface, like secrets humming just beneath the silver. What a thought piece this little coin can be! Curator: Exactly! I agree that while appearing to be an opaque historical artefact, its surface allows us to raise pertinent questions on inclusivity and shared memories, especially concerning such enigmatic and controversial groups as freemasons. Editor: And I reckon that kind of pondering is exactly the point, history served with a wink and a shine.