W. Putman, vijfenzestig jaar organist van de roomskatholieke kerk te Oudewater 1864

Editor: Here we have a bronze relief, or rather a medal, commemorating W. Putman's 65 years as organist in Oudewater. It's dated 1864 and made by Johan Philip Menger. What I find striking is how this relatively small object encapsulates a very public role. What jumps out at you? Curator: It’s fascinating how a seemingly simple commemorative medal like this can reveal so much about 19th-century society and its values. Consider how the medal itself functions as a form of public recognition. By casting Putman’s achievements in bronze, the community literally immortalized his service. Editor: Almost like a tiny monument. Curator: Exactly. Think about the implications: What does it say about the importance of music, the church, and long-term commitment in Dutch society at that time? This wasn't just a personal gift; it was a statement about communal values. The use of classicism nods to a respect for established forms, linking Putman's service to broader artistic traditions. Who gets commemorated, and how, are always political questions, wouldn't you agree? Editor: Definitely. You don’t usually think of a medal as making a statement, but it sounds like this one says quite a lot about the values and priorities of the people of Oudewater in 1864. Curator: And remember, the Rijksmuseum acquiring and displaying it further elevates its significance, adding layers of meaning and confirming the community’s original intent on a national level. A medal transforms into a historical record of musical patronage, solidifying our understanding of artistic expression within this particular time and location. Editor: It makes you see these objects differently when you consider who decided they were worthy of preserving. Thanks! Curator: Indeed, these small objects often carry big stories about society and power!