Papiermerk met duif en slang van de firma Van Gelder Papier c. 1900 - 1932

This is a paper sample with a watermark made by the Van Gelder paper company. Though anonymous, this piece can tell us much about the cultural and economic context of the Dutch paper industry. The imagery of the dove and snake here presents a compelling dichotomy. Historically, the dove is a symbol of peace and purity, while the snake often represents temptation or knowledge. Considering this piece was produced by a paper company, we might ask, what story are they trying to tell? Perhaps the snake is a nod to the knowledge gained through the written word, made possible by the very paper they produce. The watermark itself is a mark of identity, but it's also a mark of quality, subtly communicating the value and trustworthiness of the Van Gelder company. It creates an emotional connection with the consumer by associating the product with positive attributes. It serves as a reminder that even everyday objects are deeply embedded in cultural narratives.