Doosje behorend bij een zilveren penning 1898

Johannes Albertus Adolf Gerritsen made this box for a silver medal in the Netherlands sometime around the late 19th century. The box is small, almost like a miniature book, decorated with a crown and ornate initials. The presence of the crown suggests a connection to royalty or nobility, reflecting the hierarchical social structures prevalent at that time. In the Netherlands, the House of Orange-Nassau played a significant role in political and cultural life and Royal patronage influenced artistic production. Objects like this box could have served as diplomatic gifts, presentation pieces, or commemorative items within court circles. Understanding the social context of this work involves delving into the history of Dutch royalty and the culture of gift-giving and commemoration. Historical archives and genealogical records can provide insights into the identities of the individuals associated with the initials and the occasions for which the medal and box were created. Analyzing the broader social and institutional context helps us appreciate the role of art in reinforcing or challenging the norms of its time.