Penning van de Nederlandsch-Belgische Vereniging van Vrienden van de Medaille before 1933

This is Chris van der Hoef’s ‘Penning van de Nederlandsch-Belgische Vereniging van Vrienden van de Medaille’, a medal made of bronze, but I don’t know exactly when. When I look at this medal, I see two sides of the same coin, literally. On one side, a figure emerges from the waves, arms raised, radiating power. The other side presents a group of figures, united and strong, almost like a single entity. The texture of the medal is incredible; you can almost feel the raised surfaces and intricate details under your fingertips. The bronze has a warmth and depth that makes you want to reach out and touch it. The details in the waves, the figures' clothing, and the surrounding text show the artist's incredible skill. The way the light catches the raised surfaces gives the medal a sense of movement and life. This medal reminds me of the work of Klimt, particularly his use of symbolism and the human form. Both artists explore themes of identity, unity, and the power of the human spirit. Art is about embracing ambiguity, and finding new ways to see and experience the world.