Portret van prof. dr. Willem Stoeder 1874 - 1925

This is a drawing of Professor Willem Stoeder by Jan Veth. Observe Stoeder's academic cap, a symbol deeply rooted in the history of intellectual authority. Such headgear echoes the mortarboards worn in medieval universities, a tradition that signified scholarly dedication and membership within an exclusive intellectual class. We see its predecessors in the head coverings of ancient scholars and scribes, a visual marker of wisdom across cultures. Consider how the cap's form has evolved, yet its core message remains: knowledge, authority, and the weight of tradition. This symbol, laden with centuries of scholarly pursuit, reflects not just an individual’s achievement, but our collective reverence for knowledge itself. These symbols persist, shaping our perception of authority and intellectual prowess through the ages.