50-jarig bestaan van het genootschap 'Het Slangennest’, 1767 1767

This silver medal was struck in 1767 by Johan George Holtzhey. It commemorates the 50th anniversary of 'Het Slangennest', a society whose name translates to 'The Snake Nest'. The medal offers us a glimpse into the social fabric of the Dutch Republic during the Enlightenment. These societies emerged as spaces for intellectual exchange and civic engagement among the middle and upper classes. Often exclusive, they fostered a sense of shared identity and purpose among their members. The choice of "The Snake Nest" as a name evokes curiosity. Was it a symbol of wisdom, healing, or perhaps something more subversive? The image of the snake is a symbol of the society’s values, and can offer insight into the dynamics of power and inclusion within these social circles. These medals weren't merely commemorative objects, they served as tangible expressions of belonging and shared identity. They reflect the desire of the Dutch elite to forge connections, celebrate their achievements, and leave their mark on history.