Dimensions: diameter 2.9 cm, weight 1.80 gr
Copyright: Rijks Museum: Open Domain
This small diameter medallion with the name I. B. Hoffinger de Wespin, was anonymously created, and its modest size belies a wealth of social and personal history. Though we lack details about the artist, the creation of such a personal object speaks volumes about identity and status. The inclusion of a coat of arms suggests a desire to assert a particular lineage or social standing, reflecting the importance of family and heritage. The Latin inscription reminds us of the cultural influence of classicism on learned society. Consider how an item like this may have been seen or felt by its owner, what stories it might tell about their family and social connections, or how it could have operated as a statement of belonging and pride. While small and perhaps easily overlooked, it encapsulates the emotional and personal dimensions inherent in objects of self-representation.
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