Degen van ambtskostuum van burgemeester Hoytema c. 1900 - 1977

This ceremonial sword and scabbard belonged to Mayor Hoytema, though we don’t know when it was made or by whom. It's fascinating to think about how an object like this constructs power, status, and perhaps even fear. Looking at the highly polished surfaces, the play of light and shadow, it’s clear that the craftsmanship is top-notch. The handle, the guard, they're like sculptural forms in themselves, each with its own texture. But then, that blade, so severe and slender, cuts through the ornate details. I wonder what it felt like to wield something like this, to feel the balance of power in your hand? The sword and scabbard make me think of Franz Kline, who used sweeping black gestures on a white canvas, achieving a similar effect of monumentality and elegance, but with the added rawness of the artist's hand. Ultimately, both works invite us to consider how objects, whether swords or paintings, can embody complex social and personal meanings, leaving us with more questions than answers.