Vroedschapspenning van de stad 's-Hertogenbosch 1722

This silver Vroedschapspenning, or Council Member Medal, of the city of 's-Hertogenbosch was made in 1722 by Theodorus Casparus van Berckel. These medals were commissioned by city councils in the Netherlands to commemorate important events or to reward individuals for their service. Here, the medal presents a panoramic view of 's-Hertogenbosch on one side, emphasizing its geographical location as a city on the water. On the reverse is a detailed depiction of the city hall, symbolizing the civic authority and governance of the city. The imagery on this medal is steeped in the visual codes of the Dutch Republic, where cityscapes were a common motif in art, reflecting the pride and identity of urban centers during the Dutch Golden Age. To truly understand the significance of this medal, one must delve into the archives and council records of 's-Hertogenbosch. This provides insight into the political and social dynamics of the city and the values it sought to promote through such commissions.