Briefkaart aan Philip Zilcken Possibly 1911 - 1914

This briefkaart to Philip Zilcken, created by Hélène van Goethem, contains symbols of state authority. We see the Dutch coat of arms, an emblem of national identity and power, carefully stamped alongside the monarch’s profile on the postage. These symbols are not merely administrative; they evoke a deep connection to history. Coats of arms, like this one, have roots in medieval heraldry, where symbols identified noble families and their territories. Similarly, the use of a monarch's image on currency and stamps is a tradition that conveys stability. The image of a sovereign, like the crown itself, is a recurring motif throughout history, used to legitimize power. Such symbols touch upon our collective memory and the subconscious associations we hold with authority. The presence of these symbols on a simple postcard transforms it into a small but potent artifact of its time, reflecting the complex interplay between personal communication and state power. These symbols have persisted through centuries, constantly reshaped by changing contexts.