Rouwwimpel aan zwarte stok met knoppen 1767 - 1798

This mourning banner, date unknown, was made by an anonymous artist from textile and wood. The artist employed techniques of weaving and needlework to create a striking object meant to mark loss. The flag's woven body, dyed a somber black, speaks to the labor involved in textile production. Each carefully placed stitch along its edges adds to the sense of meticulous craftsmanship, but also to the labor it represents. The painted crest at the top adds a layer of heraldic symbolism, perhaps indicating a family or civic association. The contrast between the graphic and the handmade emphasizes the object’s cultural significance, while the flag's pointed end directs the eye and perhaps symbolizes a decisive end of life. The use of rudimentary materials, combined with skilled handwork, elevates this humble object into a profound expression of grief. By considering the materials, making, and context, we can appreciate the full meaning of this artwork and challenge traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.