Overlijden van Gerard Brandt de jonge, predikant te Rotterdam 1683

This silver medal commemorates the death of Gerard Brandt the Younger, a preacher from Rotterdam. Note the radiant sun on one side, positioned above the horizon of Rotterdam’s skyline. This is not merely a depiction of sunrise, it is a symbol with roots stretching back to ancient sun worship. The sun, or Sol Invictus, was a prominent deity in the Roman Empire, representing invincibility and rebirth. This symbol of light overcoming darkness was later adopted and transformed by Christianity, becoming associated with Christ and resurrection. In this context, the sun symbolizes Brandt’s spiritual awakening or ascent to heaven. It’s fascinating to see how a motif, once pagan, is now repurposed to convey Christian ideals. Such shifts illustrate the complex interplay between cultural memory, adaptation, and the subconscious human need to connect with powerful, enduring symbols. The sun as a sign of hope and renewal continues to engage us, stirring deep-seated emotions tied to life, death, and spiritual transcendence.