Onbetrouwbaarheid van de Spanjaarden tijdens de vredesonderhandelingen te Middelburg 1596

This small, anonymous medal captures the sentiment of its time: mistrust towards the Spanish during peace talks in Middelburg. Observe the tower on one side—a symbol of strength and vigilance. Yet, the inscription surrounding it, 'DURABIT IRA VICTRIX' or 'Conquering wrath will endure,' suggests a lingering hostility. On the other side, figures huddle, perhaps representing the negotiations, their postures tense, overshadowed by the inscription, which speaks of the Spaniard's unreliability. The tower, as a motif, echoes through history from ancient city seals to medieval heraldry. It represents not just physical defense but also moral fortitude. Here, however, its meaning is twisted, shadowed by doubt. It reminds me of how symbols evolve, their meanings oscillating through the ages, shaped by collective experiences and the ever-churning wheel of cultural memory. The emotional weight of the image engages viewers on a deep, subconscious level, reminding us of the cyclical nature of conflict and the enduring power of suspicion in human affairs.