Vrede van Rijswijk 1697

This is the "Vrede van Rijswijk," a silver medal made in 1697 by the Monogrammist IL. It commemorates the Treaty of Rijswijk. This medal offers insight into the political and cultural sentiments of the time, reflecting the desire for peace and stability in Europe. The iconography used, such as the kneeling figure and the altar, speaks to the values and beliefs of the society that commissioned and celebrated this work. The kneeling figure symbolizes humility and reverence, while the altar signifies sacrifice and devotion. The inscriptions on the medal in both Latin and Dutch underscore the dual cultural context in which it was created. The choice of language speaks to the intended audience and the desire to communicate the significance of the treaty to both local and international communities. The use of Latin also evokes a sense of classical authority, reinforcing the importance of the peace agreement. This medal invites us to consider how societies commemorate significant events and how these objects become symbols of collective memory and identity.