Filips II, koning van Spanje 1585

This coin depicting Filips II, King of Spain, was crafted by Gerard van Bylaer. On one side, we observe the king’s profile, encircled by an inscription denoting his title. The reverse side reveals a knight upon a horse, a symbol resonating with power and dominion. The equestrian motif, deeply rooted in antiquity, echoes the Roman emperors and their triumphant entries, embodying not just military prowess but the ruler's control. This image of the horseman has been passed down through history. From the Roman equestrian statues to Renaissance paintings, the rider becomes a signifier of authority and nobility. Its persistence speaks to our collective, subconscious reverence for leaders and the power they wield. The symbolism, emotionally charged, remains a powerful force that binds us to the past. It is a reminder that symbols, like memories, are constantly being reinterpreted.