Het wapen van Van der Linden 1630 - 1635

Jacques Jordaens created this watercolor and brush drawing called 'Het wapen van Van der Linden', or 'The coat of arms of Van der Linden'. Jordaens lived in a society profoundly shaped by social hierarchies and emerging capitalist structures. In this drawing, the coat of arms, a symbol of familial identity and status, is presented amidst allegorical figures. Justice and Prudence stand to the sides, while cherubs and lions hold the heraldic shield. These figures, traditionally gendered female and male respectively, add layers of meaning to the drawing. The figures at the base appear in quiet contemplation, perhaps suggesting reflection on the values and responsibilities associated with the Van der Linden lineage. While such heraldic displays served to uphold social order, Jordaens infuses the scene with an emotional resonance, suggesting a deeper connection between personal identity and societal roles. It is not simply a display of power, but an introspective moment on the weight of legacy.