Zegel van de Oprechte Vaderlandsche Sociëteit van Den Haag, opgericht in 1787

Jacobus Turpin created this print for the Patriot Society of The Hague in 1787. Three hands grasp a golden ring inscribed with "Het Vaderland"—"The Fatherland" in Dutch. This motif, rich with symbolism, speaks to unity, cooperation, and the collective effort to safeguard the nation. The gesture of clasped hands around a ring echoes across time, resonating with ancient Roman symbols of concordia, or harmony, where hands joined in agreement signified mutual trust and alliances. Yet, here, the ring transforms into a symbol of national identity, reflecting the ideals of the Patriot movement during a period of political and social upheaval. Consider, too, the cautionary inscription: "Incidit in Scyllam cupiens vitare Charybdim" - seeking to avoid Scylla, one falls into Charybdis. This phrase hearkens back to Homer’s Odyssey, invoking the peril of navigating between two dangers. Such a warning subtly hints at the psychological anxieties underlying political action, reminding us that even the noblest intentions can lead to unintended consequences. This emblem embodies a fervent desire to protect the homeland while acknowledging the treacherous path of political change.