Eresabel met schede van Daniel Velsberg voor het hernemen van de kanonneerboot Schrik op 23 maart 1804 before 1811

N. Jonnard created this sword and sheath to honor Daniel Velsberg's recapture of the gunboat Schrik in 1804. The sword is more than a weapon; it's a symbol of Dutch naval power during a period of intense maritime conflict and national identity formation. Consider the cultural weight of such an object. In an age of revolution and shifting global power dynamics, the sword embodies ideals of heroism and patriotism. It invites us to reflect on the intertwined narratives of military prowess and personal valor. Swords like this were emblems of status, signaling the wearer’s authority and role in maintaining social order. Reflect on Velsberg’s experience: what did it mean to be a man, a leader, and a symbol of national pride in the 19th century? This sword is not just an artifact; it's a focal point for discussions about courage, duty, and the human cost of conflict.