Vijzel met opschrift: DEVS SPES MEA 1565 1565

This bronze mortar, made in 1565 by Thomas Both, speaks volumes about the intersection of faith and daily life in the Netherlands. The inscription "DEVS SPES MEA," meaning "God is my hope," transforms a utilitarian object into a vessel of devotion. In the 16th century Netherlands, religious identity was deeply intertwined with social and political life. This was an era defined by the Reformation, which had a dramatic impact on artistic production. The very presence of this inscription suggests a desire to imbue the mundane act of grinding ingredients with a higher purpose. Such inscriptions are historical clues for those who wish to understand the complex ways in which faith permeated the domestic sphere. To truly appreciate the meaning of this object, we must consider the religious landscape of the time, the social status of its owner, and the broader cultural context in which it was created.