Sjerp met de Militaire Willemsorde en Metalen Kruis van Generaal baron Chassé 1830 - 1832

This sash with the Military William Order and Metal Cross of General Baron Chassé was produced anonymously at an unknown date. It is on display at the Rijksmuseum. Objects like this tell us a great deal about the culture of military leadership and national identity in the Netherlands. Baron Chassé was a prominent figure, known for his role in the Battle of Waterloo and the defense of Antwerp. Examining the visual codes of the sash, such as its color, material, and the specific medals attached, offers insight into the values and status associated with military achievement. In the 19th century, institutions like the military and the monarchy played a crucial role in shaping national identity. By studying historical documents, military records, and other archival sources, we can better understand how this sash functioned within the context of Dutch society and its colonial history. It serves as a reminder that our understanding of art is always contingent on its social and institutional context.