Instituut van Kinsbergen te Elburg 1806

This is a silver medal commemorating the Instituut van Kinsbergen in Elburg, and it was made in 1845 by an anonymous artist. It offers a fascinating glimpse into the social values and institutional history of 19th-century Netherlands. The medal’s imagery and text point to the era’s emphasis on social reform through education and moral instruction. On one side, the inscription "IN DUSTRIAE ET MORUM GRATIA 1845" celebrates industry and moral virtue, reflecting the institution's goals. The other side shows the name of the institution. The ribbon in the Dutch national colors connects the medal to a sense of national identity and pride. Understanding this medal requires a look into the history of Dutch educational institutions and their role in shaping social norms. Records from the Instituut van Kinsbergen itself, as well as period documents on education and social reform, would help us interpret the medal’s significance. The medal therefore serves as a reminder that art is often embedded in social and institutional contexts.