Aanvang van het jaar 1765 1765

This silver medal, created by Eise Andeles in 1765, is rich with symbolic imagery reflecting the era's values and aspirations. On one side, we see a seated female figure, likely representing Felicitas, the Roman goddess of good luck and success. She holds a caduceus, a symbol of commerce and negotiation, suggesting prosperity and divine favor. On the opposite side, putti frolic amongst symbols of agriculture and abundance, signifying a plentiful harvest and the rewards of cultivation. Consider the putti, which have evolved from ancient Greek Eros figures to Renaissance cherubs, signifying a connection to classical ideals, reborn. The circular form, with the putti dancing in the round, mirrors the cyclical nature of the seasons. The medal acts as a talisman against uncertainty, expressing a deep-seated human desire for stability. This powerful emotional appeal engages viewers on a profound level, tapping into our collective memory of nature and human potential.