Houwer met schede volgens overlevering toebehoord hebbende aan M.A. de Ruyter c. 1600 - 1800

This is an anonymous sword with sheath, held at the Rijksmuseum. The piece juxtaposes the sword's gleaming, almost inviting blade with the dark and muted sheath, presenting a study in contrasts. The sword’s handle, a canvas of creamy white adorned with delicate floral patterns, speaks of artistry, while the cold, hard steel of the blade hints at utilitarian purpose. The sheath, somber and unyielding, features a subtle, almost secretive embellishment. Together, these visual elements suggest a complex interplay between beauty and function. The piece challenges the fixed notions of what a weapon can represent, prompting a reevaluation of the values and meanings we ascribe to objects of war. It makes us reflect on the intersection of form, function, and the cultural narratives they embody.