Aftreden van Gerard Philips als directeur van de Philips Gloeilampenfabriek 1922

This bronze medal commemorates Gerard Philips' departure as director of the Philips Lightbulb Factory. The medal is rich with symbols that echo through history. Note the radiant sunbursts above the inscription, a motif that speaks to enlightenment, guidance, and even divinity. Consider its evolution from the halo of early Christian iconography to the emblem of royal power, and now, a modern symbol of corporate leadership. This powerful solar imagery conveys not just light, but also the promise of illumination, knowledge, and progress, subtly imbuing Philips with these qualities. The wreath of stylized tulips around the edge, on the other hand, suggests growth, prosperity, and the unique spirit of the Netherlands, binding Philips' success to the land itself. These symbols stir the collective memory, forging a link between Philips, progress, and the Dutch national identity. The medal is not just a memento, but a potent embodiment of the company's cultural and economic significance.