Timmerliedengilde van Amsterdam, gildepenning S. Jan van der Boom, overman 1763 - 1785

This is a silver guild badge for the Amsterdam Timbermen's Guild, honoring S. Jan van der Boom, an overseer. While the artist remains anonymous, the badge encapsulates aspects of identity, class, and religious symbolism prevalent in the 17th century Netherlands. On one side, the coat of arms of Amsterdam is flanked by lions, symbolizing civic pride and power. The inscription names Van der Boom, highlighting his status within the guild hierarchy. On the other side, the depiction of Joseph, Mary, and Jesus on the donkey references the Flight into Egypt, resonating with themes of protection and guidance. These guilds played a crucial role in the economic and social lives of craftsmen, and the badge acted as a marker of belonging. While it served as a functional object denoting membership and status, the badge also speaks to the intricate relationship between labor, religious belief, and civic identity during the Dutch Golden Age.