Krukgewicht voor 200 silveren rijders in leren sack 1700

This bronze weight, made around 1700 by Johannes Andries Groengraft, isn’t just an object; it’s a testament to early modern economic life. Meant for verifying the weight of 200 silver coins, it speaks volumes about trade, standardization, and trust. The weight’s substantial heft at over six and a half kilograms is intentional, lending a sense of assurance. The handle, essential for lifting, also suggests the manual labor involved in commercial transactions. Engraved inscriptions served a crucial function, confirming its accuracy and official approval. What’s fascinating is the object’s relationship to emerging capitalist systems. Weights and measures were vital for fair exchange, requiring careful calibration. An object like this embodies the slow shift towards standardized systems of value, overseen by skilled artisans. It asks us to consider labor, politics, and consumption, challenging the separation of art from everyday life.