Wapenschild van de familie Eysenbergh 1660 - 1672

Pieter Jansz. created this family crest of the Eysenberghs in the 17th century using watercolor and pen. During this time, in the Dutch Golden Age, family crests were powerful symbols of identity and status. This particular crest offers us a glimpse into the Eysenbergh family's history and aspirations. Notice the repetition of hats upon the shield. These hats, coupled with the bearded figure atop the crest, are not merely decorative. They are signifiers of identity, potentially hinting at the family's trade, social standing, or regional affiliation. The choice of colors is particularly poignant. Red, often associated with courage and valor, is prominently featured, suggesting the family's desire to be seen as bold and honorable. Yet, these crests were also about carefully constructing an image, determining what aspects of identity to highlight and which to conceal. What does it mean to literally wear your identity, and who gets to decide what that looks like?