Handpiek, fragment bestaande uit kling en een gedeelte van stok c. 1590 - 1596

This fragment consisting of a blade and part of a stick, known as a handpiek, resides here at the Rijksmuseum. Its anonymous creation speaks volumes about the social and political contexts of its time. Imagine the hands that crafted and wielded this weapon. In a world often defined by power and conflict, this object becomes a symbol of the identities and struggles of those who lived through it. Its existence forces us to consider the historical and cultural narratives surrounding warfare, and the individuals caught in the crossfire. The simplicity of its form belies the complexity of its purpose: to inflict harm, to protect, and to assert dominance. In its silence, the handpiek echoes with the stories of countless individuals. It serves as a stark reminder of our collective history, urging us to confront the harsh realities of the past.