Honderdste planting van de Meiboom te 's Gravenhage 1734

This struck silver medal, made by Martin Holtzhey, presents a duality in its composition, divided into two distinct sides that offer differing symbolic arrangements. One side features a complex heraldic display dominated by a crowned shield, flanked by allegorical figures and banners, suggesting themes of power and tradition. Above, smaller emblems in circular frames add further layers to this visual lexicon. Turning to the other side, we encounter inscriptions framed by similar circular emblems, but here, language takes precedence over imagery. The text, carefully arranged, likely commemorates a specific event, indicated by its clear, direct communication. The circular form of the medal itself acts as a unifying structure, containing these contrasting modes of representation within a single object. This contrast invites us to consider how symbols and text both function to convey meaning, and how their juxtaposition creates a dialogue about history, identity, and commemoration.