Plaque of borstster van het Grootkruis van de Orde van de Unie van I.J.A. Gogel c. 1811

This is a plaque of the Grand Cross of the Order of the Union, likely crafted from silver and textiles by an anonymous maker. The design features radiating silver rays, surrounding a central medallion. The lion rampant symbolizes power and authority, meticulously engraved onto the silver. The reverse reveals a different story. The coarsely woven textile backing, held together with visible stitches, speaks to the unseen labor required to produce this emblem of distinction. Consider how the material and its making influence our perception; the smooth, reflective silver evokes prestige, while the textile hints at the labor involved in its creation. The plaque embodies the intricate relationship between artistry, labor, and social status. Examining the construction and materials allows us to consider not only aesthetic value but also the wider social and economic context of its creation.