Prijspenning van de tentoonstelling bij het 23e Landhuishoudkundig Congres te Kampen 1869 1869

Curator: Here we have a medal, or 'Prijspenning', from the 23rd National Agricultural Congress Exhibition in Kampen, dated 1869. It’s attributed to David van der Kellen. Editor: The materiality is really striking. The smooth, almost worn metal surface—bronze perhaps—it gives such a tactile impression of history. There's a coolness to it, both visually and physically, almost demanding to be held and examined closely. Curator: Yes, its purpose as a commemorative medal places it firmly within the tradition of bestowing honors. Consider what this object signifies in terms of social structures and recognition of agricultural advancements in the late 19th century Netherlands. These congresses were critical in disseminating knowledge and shaping policy, this object representing that dissemination of knowledge through the production of a tangible object. Editor: Absolutely. I see the wreath and the emblem at the top—it speaks volumes about value being placed upon land and the work required to cultivate it. The craftsmanship itself is subtle, yet carries this clear message, suggesting pride and a material connection to the earth. The labor involved in the medal’s creation, contrasted against the agricultural labor it celebrates, is compelling. It speaks volumes about class, artistry, and purpose all coalescing. Curator: Indeed. The medal also connects to the rise of national institutions and professional societies and reflects a burgeoning sense of national identity tied to agricultural success. Editor: I love how a seemingly simple object encapsulates such complex social relationships around labor and material culture. The deliberate choice of materials and design to imbue it with a sense of prestige... it all resonates today. Curator: Ultimately, this 'Prijspenning' speaks to the intersection of art, industry, and society, revealing much about the values of its time. Editor: It certainly provides a tangible way to reflect on the way material objects embed history and class, all at once!