Vroedschapspenning van de stad Rotterdam Possibly 1769 - 1774

This silver Vroedschapspenning was made by Theodorus Victor van Berckel, an artist born in 1739. Here we find the heraldic lion, a motif stretching back through millennia, symbolizing courage, nobility, and royalty. Note how these lions support Rotterdam's coat of arms. The image is deeply rooted in heraldry, emblems of identity and power. As far back as the ancient Near East, the lion was associated with kingship and divine power, from the Lion Gate at Mycenae to the biblical Lion of Judah. Consider how this symbol has been passed down. The lion motif evolves, adapting to new cultural contexts while retaining echoes of its ancient power. Here, the lions’ presence evokes a sense of civic pride and historical continuity. They aren’t merely decorative; they actively engage with our collective memory, stirring feelings of strength. The image’s emotional power lies in its ability to connect us to a deeper narrative. The lion, a symbol loaded with centuries of meaning, resurfaces in Rotterdam, transformed yet still potent, reflecting the city’s own enduring strength.