Genootschap "Kunst wordt door arbeid verkregen", penning toegekend aan Olivier Porjeere

About this artwork

Gift of J.M. van Gelder-Nijhoff

Art Historical Context

Behold the intricate medal *Genootschap "Kunst wordt door arbeid verkregen", penning toegek aan Olivier Porjeere (Society "Art is Obtained Through Labor", medal awarded to Olivier Porje), crafted by Dutch artist Nicolaas Reyers in1780. This finely struck piece, measuring 4.9 cm in diameter and weighing 431 grams, exemplifies the of 18th-century metalworking Reyers, a skilled engraver, used the striking technique—pressing a detailed die into a metal blank—to create a durable, high-relief design that captures both artistry and craftsmanship. The medal commemorates Olivier Porjeere's achievement within the Genootschap "Kunst wordt door arbeid verkregen," a Dutch society founded in the late 18th century to promote diligence in the arts. Reflecting Enlightenment ideals, its motto underscores that true mastery arises from hard work, a ethos common in guilds and academies of the era. Such awards were prestigious tokens, often worn or displayed to honor excellence in drawing, engraving, or related trades. Generously donated by J.M. van Gelder-Nijhoff, this artifact offers a glimpse into the vibrant cultural life of the Dutch Republic's twilight years, where societies like this nurtured talent amid economic shifts. A testament to perseverance, it reminds us that enduring beauty is forged through effort.

About the Artist

Nicolaas Reyers · 1719–1789

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