Vijftigjarig huwelijk van Matthijs Siegenbeek en Geertruida Tieboel 1849 1849

This bronze medal, commemorating the golden wedding anniversary of Matthijs Siegenbeek and Geertruida Tieboel, was crafted in 1849 by David van der Kellen. The medal offers a glimpse into the values and social structures of 19th-century Dutch society. The imagery, with its classical allusions—the winged figure, likely symbolizing enduring love or divine blessing, and the altar—speaks to the cultural aspirations of the bourgeoisie. It prompts us to consider how marriage was, and sometimes still is, viewed as a cornerstone of societal stability and personal achievement. What expectations and constraints were placed on women within these unions? How did class and social standing influence these relationships? While the medal celebrates a personal milestone, it also serves as a historical artifact, inviting us to reflect on the complexities of love, partnership, and societal expectations across time.