Brouwersgilde van Leeuwarden, gildepenning van Claes Hoytes Reytsma, meester brouwer 1688

This is a guild badge for the Brewers Guild of Leeuwarden, made by an unknown artist. It was a time when guilds played a central role in the economic and social lives of artisans and merchants. This badge embodies the intersection of commerce, community, and identity. Inscribed with the name of Claes Hoytes Reytsma, master brewer, this object acts as a personal emblem and a declaration of professional standing. It offers insight into the world of work, status, and belonging during this historical period. The badge’s design is both functional and symbolic: the inscription serves to identify its owner and affirm their membership within the guild. The act of wearing or displaying this badge signals a brewer’s adherence to quality standards, ethical practices, and community values upheld by the guild. Reflecting on this guild badge, we can consider how objects of everyday use also served as powerful symbols of personal identity.