De tocht van admiraal van der Does naar de Canarische eilanden 1599

This medal commemorating Admiral van der Does' voyage to the Canary Islands was created by Christian Maler in the early 17th century. In the Dutch Republic, this type of commemorative object served a distinct public function. They were a form of political communication, reflecting and shaping public opinion about significant events and figures. The medal portrays Admiral van der Does, recognizable by his attire and bearing, alongside an allegorical female figure representing the Canary Islands. This pairing isn't just decorative. It invokes the visual language of conquest and dominion that was commonplace during the expansion of European power. The medal subtly broadcasts the Dutch Republic’s maritime strength and colonial ambitions. As art historians, we look at this medal as an artifact deeply embedded in the political and economic conditions of its time. Old shipping records, pamphlets, and other archival sources help us to understand the public’s perception of such voyages and their leaders. This medal is an emblem of a society grappling with its identity and place in the world.