Tweehonderdjarig bestaan van het Amsterdams stadsschouwtoneel 1838

This silver medal, commemorating the bicentenary of Amsterdam's Stadsschouwburg, crafted by David van der Kellen, presents us with a fascinating interplay of symbols. Encircled by blooming flowers, emblematic of growth and prosperity, the medal features a beehive—an age-old symbol for diligence, industry, and communal harmony. The image of the hive is a recurring motif, echoing through medieval art and Renaissance emblems. One can find similar imagery in the context of familial coats of arms, where, in this and many other contexts, bees are a symbol of an efficient and industrious household. This symbol is not static; its meanings shift with societal values, yet the underlying association with collective effort remains potent. The commemorative medal engages us on a deeper level. It taps into our collective memory and understanding of cultural symbols. It invites us to reflect on how symbols persist, evolve, and gain new relevance across time.