Aansporing tot eendracht 1591

Editor: Here we have a fascinating engraving, "Aansporing tot eendracht," created in 1591 by Paulus van Wtewael. It looks like it was struck as a coin or medal, made of metal in relief. The imagery is striking, a kind of compressed, symbolic drama. What key meanings do you unlock when you view this engraving? Curator: This piece is incredibly rich in symbols intended to trigger specific cultural memories for its original audience. The oxen pulling in different directions is a strong metaphor. Do you notice what they are failing to do? Editor: It seems the oxen are preventing the cart from moving forward? The wording at the top hints towards unity too... is that right? Curator: Precisely. This references the need for unity among the Dutch provinces during their struggle for independence from Spain. The two oxen must work together if they are to pull the cart with the province's belongings safely along. Note the symbolism of the trees above the ox too; observe their relationship and meaning with the narrative? Editor: They intertwine and rise in unison? Almost a natural symbol that mirrors and reenforces that core sentiment: unity is strength! What does the imagery on the opposite side of the medal show? Curator: The other side reinforces this call, depicting the Belgic Lion guarding the borders. Can you see the architectural elements included within the boundaries? It emphasizes what they are all struggling to protect together – home, stability, safety. The memory of constant division versus collective solidarity and strength is captured so simply here. Editor: It's like a tiny time capsule packed with a powerful message for the time, and I guess those same themes still ring true today. I had missed the lion standing guard... Thank you, what a fascinating object!