Penning van de stad Leiden, ter ere van Pieter Adriaansz. van der Werff, 1824 1824

Daniël (I) Veelwaard created this print in 1824, honoring Pieter Adriaansz. van der Werff, using etching and burin. The composition features two circular medallions, each meticulously detailed to convey distinct symbolic meanings. The monochrome palette focuses our attention on the precision of line and form. The medallion on the left presents a profile portrait of van der Werff, framed by his name, a composition that monumentalizes the individual. On the right, a laurel wreath encircles an inscription, which functions as a textual monument, reinforcing the commemorative intent. The stark contrast between the figure and text, and the surrounding empty space, invites us to consider the relationship between representation and narrative. What does it mean to encapsulate history within these structured forms? The semiotic interplay between image and text challenges fixed interpretations.