Grafbord van George Lodewijk Vernet (1711-75), directeur van Bengalen (1763-69) after 1775

Curator: So, here we have what's known as a "Grafbord," or memorial panel, commemorating George Lodewijk Vernet, who directed Bengal from 1763 to 1769. It's dated after his death in 1775. Editor: Right off, it feels weighty, serious... and oddly captivating. Is that a painted wooden board? It has that almost aged quality, the kind of piece that tells a quiet story. Curator: Indeed. The materials list "painting" and "wood," placing it firmly in the tradition of Dutch Golden Age and Baroque memorial art. We have these panels in memory of notable individuals. Given Vernet's role with the Dutch East India Company, it really anchors him to the economic and political complexities of the period. Editor: Bengal! Batavia! So evocative of trade routes, colonial power, lives lived across continents. And the coat of arms, that splash of crimson and gold. A star and crescent—very intriguing imagery in a European context. Almost exotic. Curator: Exactly. Heraldry became incredibly important for establishing identity and social standing. A board like this in the church would be visible for all to recognize family and social status, linking Vernet’s personal identity to the wider narratives of colonialism and global commerce. The details really underline intersectional relations between Europe and Asia during that period. Editor: Thinking about his legacy now though… how does a symbol like that hold up, knowing what we do about colonial rule? I guess, even in remembrance, the art’s inseparable from all those complex layers, good and bad, and mostly bad. Curator: Precisely, by putting his achievements on display, this Grafbord essentially sanitizes some exploitative activity. The text and iconography construct him as this great man, glossing over some inconvenient truths. Looking at this piece encourages us to consider ethical considerations that should inform our examination and comprehension of art within its complex historical circumstances. Editor: Hmm. Definitely gives me more to ponder than just a face from a long time ago. Like a little painted portal to bigger questions... good reminder that every single gilded thing casts a shadow.