Speldje Drees lijst 2 1910 - 1980

Curator: What an intriguing little artifact. We’re looking at a ceramic pin here at the Rijksmuseum, referred to as "Speldje Drees lijst 2". It comes from somewhere between 1910 and 1980, created by an anonymous artist. Editor: My first thought is that it feels surprisingly formal for something so small. That dark red and metallic gold evoke a sense of officialdom. But it’s a pin! Who was this Drees, and why would they merit such…serious bling? Curator: Drees was a well known prime minister of the Netherlands after WWII and the ceramic references ideas such as permanence, function and structure, which are connected to a positive symbolism linked to new foundations in society. Editor: Ah, so the torch symbolizes enlightenment, leadership? Interesting, because from an intersectional lens, political symbols such as a torch are very useful tools when politicians are communicating to specific communities and reinforcing dominant power structures and ideologies, by fostering an exclusive sense of belonging. Curator: And you notice that number 2 next to it? That must be a reference to a ballot for the prime minister, likely the Dutch Labour Party candidate for political office during that time. Think of the torch and flames here—historically these convey an enduring call to action and illumination. A bright idea burning! Editor: I find it interesting that this item is anonymous because it can have diverse associations. Because of it's association with labor workers after the second world war, it connects collective identity with historical narrative during a period of collective grief and struggle. Curator: Precisely. Consider that for someone who once proudly wore this pin, there was a message about faith in their nation’s democratic process, wrapped up with faith in humanity’s drive toward enlightenment. The golden light emerging! Editor: And for later generations, especially those whose families may have faced discrimination from specific politician party views or legislation it perhaps serves as a reminder of political promises, social contracts that were unfulfilled during a challenging historical era. Curator: So even now, this small token opens our eyes, isn’t it? Editor: Definitely.