Planting van de meiboom te 's-Gravenhage door de schutterij 1737

Martin Holtzhey created this silver medal to commemorate the planting of the maypole in The Hague, but its date of creation is unknown. The maypole tradition was a deeply symbolic ritual that tapped into civic identity and community pride. The imagery on the medal speaks volumes about the values and aspirations of the time. The front showcases a collection of weapons and flags, symbolizing the military might and civic duty of the citizenry. On the reverse side, allegorical scenes offer a glimpse into the virtues upheld by society. These include justice, strength, and faith. These weren't just abstract ideals; they were woven into the fabric of daily life and reflected in the governance and social structures of the community. The medal then becomes a lens through which we can examine the intersections of power, identity, and belonging in the historical context of The Hague.