Sjerp gedragen door kapitein Blankenheim 1800 - 1830

Curator: Immediately I see a sash of some kind. It appears quite delicate and aged. Editor: Yes, what we’re looking at is a sash worn by Captain Blankenheim. It's believed to be from around 1800 to 1830, a time of upheaval. An anonymous work made from textile and fibre art elements. There's a subtle sense of romanticism. Curator: It certainly evokes that era! To me, the golden hue is reminiscent of sunlight reflecting on a battlefield— perhaps a symbol of courage, resilience, and, above all, honour. Editor: Perhaps… though honour meant different things in different ranks, I'd wager. The gold shades could symbolize the rewards promised to those fighting colonial wars. As a captain, he held a powerful position and greatly benefitted from colonial trade practices that dispossessed others of their wealth and land. Curator: But, is there more to unpack beyond socioeconomic and historic contexts? Consider it not as belonging to a person but belonging to an ideal: military prowess, a mark of valor; after all, those tassels carry weight in the realm of military adornment. Editor: It depends on what we consider "value". Military honour, sure, but at whose expense? Consider its construction: What lives were touched for this delicate piece of textile to exist? This artefact may seem simple, but it opens up a web of labor, power, and societal narratives, most of which go unacknowledged. Curator: You bring forth valid points. Every artefact echoes untold narratives. While not everything is cast in gold, symbolism adds many layers that deepen its essence beyond mere craftsmanship, it is the tangible ghost of an ideal. Editor: True, an “ideal" sustained by human, very real, sacrifices. As we observe historical artifacts, it’s essential to reflect on their multi-layered impact, ensuring those in the periphery receive their recognition. Curator: A wonderful discourse. The sash carries the echoes of historical glory alongside silenced voices—an emblem forever interlinked. Editor: Indeed, and that's how a simple sash becomes a conduit for challenging established historical views, inviting introspection regarding our relationship with the past.