Rust in de Nederlanden, rekenpenning van de Staten van Utrecht 1593

Curator: This coin, “Rust in de Nederlanden, rekenpenning van de Staten van Utrecht” made in 1593, appears to be made of metal and produced through a carving or printing process, it showcases a medieval aesthetic through sculpture, sculptural image and 3D sculpting elements. Editor: Yes, it depicts both a detailed city view on one side and some sort of crest on the other, it is so detailed considering how small it probably is. I find myself wondering what its intended use was, and what story does it tell about its time? Curator: The means of production are fascinating, aren’t they? Consider the social context. A coin like this wasn't just currency; it was a medium of exchange and communication, circulating beliefs, values, and social norms. What does its physical weight and texture communicate about wealth and power? Editor: That is so interesting; it wasn't simply money, it was a message. So, do you see this coin more as a craft object or as a fine art object? Curator: I would push against the distinction between 'high' art and 'craft' here. Instead, consider how labor shaped it. A coin such as this blurs the lines between both worlds. Also, who had access to such coins? What did it mean to own and circulate these? Editor: That makes me think about how this particular object may have perpetuated status differences. The more I learn about the materiality, the more questions I have about production and labor, the physical value of it. Curator: Exactly! By examining the materiality and social context, we gain deeper insight into the complex intersection of economics, politics, and visual culture in the late 16th century. The historical details matter a lot, but the value is more than it represents. Editor: Thank you, I’m certainly walking away seeing so much more than just an old coin. It’s fascinating to think about production and consumption. Curator: Indeed, and how it reflects societal values, artistic trends, and even the social fabric of its time.