Doos horend bij een bronzen penning 1874

This is a small box, likely crafted in the late 19th century, intended to house a bronze medal. The box itself is unassuming. It is made from humble materials: paperboard, carefully bent and glued to form a rigid cylinder. A strip of black paper adds a touch of refinement. The interior is lined with a soft material, perhaps felt or cotton, to protect the medal from scratches. The box speaks to a culture of collecting and display that was gaining popularity during this period. As medals became more common, so did the need for appropriate containers. Though seemingly simple, the construction of this box involved skilled handwork. The maker would have needed precise cutting and folding techniques, as well as a good eye for detail. In considering objects like this, we recognize the artistry in everyday things, and challenge the distinction between the fine and decorative arts.