Wapen van Nederland 1778 - 1838

Editor: We’re looking at “Wapen van Nederland,” or Coat of Arms of the Netherlands, an engraving dating from between 1778 and 1838, found here at the Rijksmuseum and created by Anthonie van den Bos. The small scale and the crisp lines give it a formal feel. It’s such a simple yet stately design. What strikes you when you look at this piece? Curator: Oh, what a treasure! You know, sometimes the smallest things pack the biggest punch, and this engraving certainly proves it. Immediately, I think of history whispering from this little rectangle. The way the lions flank the shield, they almost seem to be sharing a secret – perhaps about the birth pangs of a nation. Don't you find something… ironic... in how such a meticulously rendered image represents such volatile, tumultuous times? Editor: Volatile, tumultuous... how so? Is there a specific historical context I'm missing? Curator: Ah, my dear friend, it's a story of revolutions and shifting sands! The dates place this right in the period where the Netherlands was bouncing back and forth between being a republic, being under French control with a Bonaparte on the throne, and then finally emerging as the Kingdom of the Netherlands. That coat of arms likely went through a few iterations to reflect all the changes! It almost feels as if van den Bos captured a fleeting symbol during very stormy seas. Don't you think? Editor: I do see what you mean. Knowing the backdrop makes it feel like a time capsule, almost. It's not just a symbol; it’s a witness. Thanks for shining some light on that! Curator: My pleasure! These quiet little artworks often have the loudest stories to tell, if we just take the time to listen with our eyes and minds.