Family medal 1755

This family medal was created in 1788 by Johan George Holtzhey. Crafted in silver, it offers a glimpse into the values and aspirations of the Dutch elite during the late 18th century. The medal's imagery speaks to the era’s social hierarchy, the putti floating on clouds, and the emblems of civic and familial pride. In this period, one's identity was often deeply intertwined with family lineage, civic duty, and social standing. Medals like these, then, functioned as more than mere decorations; they were symbolic representations of one's place in the world. The imagery likely resonated deeply with the family it was made for, reflecting their aspirations and sense of self-worth. The medal is a reminder of how objects can encapsulate and convey the complex interplay between individual identity and societal expectations.