Etiket van fotograaf J. Goedeljee 1877 - 1905

This is the label from a photograph made by Jan Goedeljee from Leiden, likely dating back to the late 19th century. The label showcases symbols of national identity and royal affiliation. We see the Dutch coat of arms, flanked by lions, topped with a crown, and the medals, all signifying allegiance to the Dutch monarchy. These emblems evoke a sense of pride and authority. Consider the lion—a symbol of strength and courage, used across cultures from ancient Mesopotamia to medieval Europe. Its recurring presence speaks to a deep-seated human need for symbols of power. Like how the pharaohs of Egypt used the lion to represent their might, or how it became a symbol of royalty in Europe. These symbols are powerful because they tap into our collective memory. They remind us of our shared history, traditions, and values. They are like a secret language, understood by those who belong to the same cultural group. The use of these symbols in Goedeljee's work underscores the cultural and political context of his time, where national identity was a potent force.