Briefkaart aan Anna Dorothea Dirks Possibly 1920 - 1926

This postcard, likely dating from 1920, features the Dutch coat of arms, a symbol deeply rooted in the medieval heraldic tradition. It features a crowned shield held by two lions, encapsulating the nation's identity. The lion as a symbol of strength and courage dates back to antiquity. Its adoption in heraldry, particularly during the Crusades, signified valor and noble lineage. We observe similar symbolism across various cultures—the Lion Gate at Mycenae, the Lion of Judah—each iteration reflecting a unique cultural interpretation. The crown, another potent symbol, represents authority and sovereignty. Its presence atop the shield suggests a divinely ordained power, echoing ancient Egyptian and Roman practices where rulers were depicted wearing crowns to signify their elevated status. The Dutch coat of arms, then, is not merely a national emblem but a powerful condensation of historical, cultural, and psychological forces, engaging viewers on a primal level with notions of identity, power, and continuity. This configuration of images evokes a profound sense of collective memory.