Wapen van het Huis Nassau 1635 - 1694

Editor: Here we have Dirck de Bray’s "Wapen van het Huis Nassau," dating from 1635 to 1694. It’s an engraving, rendered in ink. The intricate detail in such a small format is striking. What stories do you think it could tell? Curator: Well, aren't coats of arms fascinating? They're like visual autobiographies, tiny graphic novels packed with symbolism! I see dynastic ambition rendered in lions, crowns, and mottoes. It is fascinating that something like this, on paper, meant something powerful to someone. Editor: Autobiography indeed! I see the lions – strong and proud – and that crown screams power. Is there something more to unpack beyond that? Curator: The beauty of these family crests is that they aren't accidental: Everything is chosen. Those surrounding fruits, and foliage—possibly symbolic of prosperity, divine favor, family legacy, things of that nature! Do you see the motto on the ribbon? That probably unlocks a major piece of the puzzle. The power in the little things. Editor: "Honi Soit Qui Mal Y Pense" – Shame on anyone who thinks evil of it. I’m starting to appreciate all the careful considerations. Curator: Precisely! A little like those medieval illuminated manuscripts...Each stroke had meaning. Editor: Looking at this differently now—I realize it’s like stepping into a world where every detail whispers a secret about family lineage and identity. Curator: Indeed. These crests were important historical art, so they had better project that message with authority! Makes you wonder what our equivalent would be today… an NFT?