Claude van der Eycken, magistraat van de schatkist van Brussel 1636

This coin depicting Claude van der Eycken, magistrate of the treasury of Brussels, was made in Brussels by an anonymous artist. This object provides insight into the values of the governing class of Brussels in the 17th century. The two female figures on the front are allegorical. The figure on the left is a symbol of Justice. She is holding a sword. She is standing on a dog, symbolizing loyalty. The figure on the right is a symbol of Peace. She is holding an olive branch. By placing the figures of Justice and Peace on the coin, the magistrate is making a statement about his values. This coin shows us that the magistrate sought to represent himself as an agent of both peace and justice. The historian can use this coin as a social document to interpret the values of the ruling class of Brussels during this period.