Bokaal van de schutterij van de Edele Busse te Veere c. 1624

This covered goblet, made anonymously, showcases the marksmen's guild of Veere. Its lid is crowned with a small figure holding what appears to be a staff or banner, emblematic of civic duty and collective identity. The marksmen's guilds, once vital for urban defense, were steeped in symbolism, their emblems—such as the figure atop this goblet—resonating with deeper cultural meanings. Think of the banners and standards carried in ancient Roman legions or medieval crusades; these symbols served not just as identifiers but as rallying points, imbued with the collective spirit and purpose of the group. Consider how such motifs evolved: from symbols of military might to emblems of civic pride, reflecting a shift in societal values and priorities. This constant re-emergence and adaptation reminds us of the enduring human need for symbols that bind us, stir our emotions, and connect us to something larger than ourselves. The goblet itself evokes a sense of unity, a vessel for shared celebrations and communal identity. This reflects a non-linear progression, with the image resurfacing across time, acquiring new layers of meaning, and continuing to engage us on a profoundly human level.