Vijftigjarig huwelijk van Gilles Groenevelt en Kornelia Petronella de Bok 1803

This silver medal commemorates the 50th wedding anniversary of Gilles Groenevelt and Kornelia Petronella de Bok, although the artist remains anonymous. The imagery on the medal offers a glimpse into the values and social expectations placed upon marriage in the 19th century. On one side, we see symbols of prosperity and stability. The other side depicts a woman kneeling in prayer, emphasizing the importance of religion and piety in maintaining a successful union. The symbols underscore the gendered roles within the marriage, where women were often relegated to the domestic sphere and expected to uphold moral and religious virtues. The medal serves as a poignant reminder of the social and cultural norms that shaped personal relationships. It invites us to reflect on the evolution of marriage and the ongoing negotiation of gender roles in contemporary society. It prompts us to consider how societal expectations intersect with individual experiences.