Degen van Jhr. J.M. de Bosch Kemper c. 1810

This is Jhr. J.M. de Bosch Kemper’s sword, likely made in the 19th century by an anonymous maker. Swords like these are often seen as symbols of power, status, and masculine identity. In the past, only men from noble families or with military status were allowed to carry swords. This sword would have been a clear sign of the owner’s position in society. It is important to think about how objects like this reinforce social hierarchies and gender roles. Owning and displaying a sword can be seen as an act of performing masculinity and dominance. Objects such as this sword are a reminder of how deeply embedded symbols of power and status are in our culture. They prompt us to reflect on the complex ways in which identity, gender, and authority are constructed and performed through material objects.