O.C.J. Hoogendijk van Domselaar, lid van de Staten van Gelderland, stichter van zeventig huizen voor ambachtslieden te Tiel

About this artwork

diameter 5,5 cm x gewicht 70,9 gr

Art Historical Context

Behold this exquisite struck medal from 1860, crafted by Dutch artist Salomon de Vries to honor O.C.J. Hoogendijk Domselaar, a prominent member of the States of Gelderland—the assembly in the Netherlands. The title inscribed on the medal celebrates Hoogendijk's remarkable philanthropy: founding seventy houses for craftsmen in Tiel, a town in Gelderland. In an era of rapid industrialization, such initiatives provided vital housing for skilled laborers, reflecting a growing 19th-century emphasis on social welfare and community support amid economic change. Measuring just 5.5 cm in diameter and weighing 70.9 grams, this small yet weighty bronze or similar metal piece exemplifies the art of striking—a metalworking technique where a die stamps intricate designs under immense pressure, capturing fine details with precision and durability. De Vries, known for his medal work, employed this method to immortalize Hoogendijk's portrait and achievements, blending portraiture with commemorative symbolism typical of the period's numismatic art. Medals like this served as portable tributes, often distributed to mark civic virtues and inspire emulation. Today, it offers a tangible glimpse into Dutch regional governance and benevolence, reminding us how individual generosity shaped local histories. A true gem for admirers of historical metalwork!