Briefkaart aan Jan Veth Possibly 1899

This is a postcard to Jan Veth by Antoon Derkinderen. The Dutch coat of arms stamped upon this letter is a powerful symbol of sovereignty and national identity, a visual language that transcends mere administrative function. The coat of arms, adorned with a crown, evokes a sense of established authority and inherited power. Historically, such symbols were not merely decorative but served as emblems of ruling dynasties. Think of the double-headed eagle of the Holy Roman Empire or the fleur-de-lis of the French monarchy—each carrying centuries of political and cultural weight. These symbols tap into our collective memory, triggering a range of associations from national pride to questions of historical legitimacy, engaging viewers on a deep, subconscious level. It shows how symbols resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings in different historical contexts.