Overlijden van Ida Block 1693

This is a silver memorial coin commemorating the death of Ida Block, likely made shortly after her death in 1693 by Jan Boskam. In the Dutch Republic of the late 17th century, memorial coins like this one served as potent symbols of status and remembrance. Block's belonging to the upper social classes is evident through the coin's material and the detailed portrait, reflecting the Dutch elite's tradition of commissioning art to immortalize their legacy. The skull and bones on the reverse are a stark reminder of mortality, while the inscription in Dutch celebrates Block's virtues and accomplishments, typical of commemorative pieces from this era. The coin could tell us about Dutch society’s values, gender roles, and the importance of remembrance within elite circles. Delving into genealogical records, period literature, and studies of Dutch social history, the modern researcher can unlock a deeper understanding of the coin’s meaning. Art is always contingent on the social and institutional context.