Twee medailles met historische voorstellingen 1800 - 1864

Abraham Vinkeles created these medals, now held at the Rijksmuseum, that depict historical scenes from Amsterdam. Look closely, and you'll notice recurring symbols such as coats of arms featuring three crosses, emblematic of Amsterdam itself. These crosses, believed to derive from the shield of the Persijn family, have taken on different meanings through history, shifting from noble heraldry to civic identity. This emblem has been passed down through generations, becoming deeply ingrained in the collective memory of the city. Even today, it is ubiquitous on flags, signs, and merchandise, evoking civic pride and a shared sense of belonging. Consider how such symbols evolve and resonate across time. These crosses, once mere heraldic markers, have tapped into a powerful psychological current, becoming potent symbols of urban identity. And how they, like other symbols, continue to resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings in different historical contexts.