Prijspenning van het schuttersgezelschap te Amsterdam (1779) 1779

Hendrik Meijer created this silver prize medal for the Amsterdam civic guard in 1779. The medal commemorates the shooting society, a civilian group responsible for maintaining order, reflecting Amsterdam's political and social structures during the late 18th century. Note the symbols of power and civic duty. On one side, an eagle with a crown represents authority, while crossed rifles and a target allude to marksmanship. On the reverse, a female figure, likely an allegorical representation of virtue or victory, crowns a marksman with a laurel wreath. The imagery of this medal reinforces the values of the ruling class and male members of society while the role of women is limited to representing abstract virtues. This medal not only celebrates skill but also embodies the social values and power dynamics of its time, a microcosm of Amsterdam society, and a reminder of the complex interplay between identity, duty, and privilege.