Overlijden van Willem Bilderdijk Possibly 1831 - 1836

Curator: This beautiful piece in the Rijksmuseum collection is a metal relief engraving titled "Overlijden van Willem Bilderdijk," or "The Death of Willem Bilderdijk," possibly created between 1831 and 1836 by David van der Kellen. What's your immediate take on this work, Editor? Editor: Well, first of all, it’s so wonderfully austere! The monochromatic silver, the bas-relief…it feels like a frozen moment, a preserved memory polished to a gleaming shine. There’s a cool detachment about it, almost Roman in its stoicism. Curator: Indeed. Medals like this one served not only as commemorations, but also as political and social currency. The production of such objects, often in precious metals, signaled a certain level of societal value and influence. This isn't just about remembering Bilderdijk; it's about solidifying his legacy within a material framework of worth. Editor: Ah, so it's less about personal grief and more about manufacturing a monument, literally, through skillful crafting! I notice how the lettering and wreath on the reverse almost serve as branding, like a stamp of approval on his life’s achievements. Very…meta, for the 1830s. Curator: Exactly. Consider the labor involved: the engraver's skill, the cost of the metal, the time invested. These all contribute to the overall message about Bilderdijk's importance. Also it’s worth mentioning that van der Kellen himself held quite an important position as a die-cutter for the Royal Dutch Mint later in life. Editor: Which adds another layer of meaning, right? It speaks to the infrastructure of recognition, how the state itself is implicated in constructing these narratives. To me, it feels incredibly formalized, even if intended as a memorial. Curator: A fascinating tension, isn't it? Between individual memory and public declaration, artistic skill, and governmental authority. Editor: It gives me a new appreciation for just how loaded even seemingly simple objects like this can be. Who knew a shiny metal disc could spark so many thoughts about power, memory, and the means of production? Curator: Precisely. And that's the power of understanding the material context!