Schrijf- of geldkist met afbeelding zoon Peter de Grote 1685 - 1700

This writing or money chest, of unknown date, attributed to an anonymous artist, presents a captivating blend of form and function. The box's structure is immediately striking – the dark, ornate ironwork contrasts sharply with the softer, painted panels of the lid and interior. On the lid, a portrait of Peter the Great's son is framed by a decorative oval, set against a muted pink background. Inside, a dynamic hunting scene unfolds, full of movement and pictorial depth. The contrast between these scenes is quite compelling: the formal portrait on top and the lively narrative inside suggest a play between public image and private interest. The box’s exterior is rigid and imposing, while its interior bursts with dynamic imagery. This tension destabilizes any fixed idea of what the chest represents, inviting ongoing interpretation. This interplay of structure and content makes the chest a fascinating object. It's not just a container, but a complex signifier, reflecting the cultural codes and power relations of its time.