Henrik Ibsen (1828-1906) plakett, nyere preg, 122,3 .999 sølv

Product information

Henrik Ibsen (1828–1906) – Fine Silver Plaquette

This large silver plaquette reproduces a design from 1895, featuring a portrait of Henrik Ibsen on the obverse, with his characteristic facial features, spectacles and prominent sideburns. The reverse depicts a seated female figure upon an Egyptian sphinx, accompanied by the Latin inscription QUID EST VERITAS? – “What is truth?”

The question is taken from the Gospel of John, where Pontius Pilate addresses it to Jesus. Together with the sphinx, associated since antiquity with riddles and unanswered questions, the imagery acquires a particular connection to Ibsen’s dramatic works. Truth, self-deception and the difficulties human beings face in understanding themselves and others are central themes in several of his plays.

Ibsen himself was also referred to as “the Sphinx” by his contemporaries, partly because of his reserved manner and his ability to conceal his thoughts. The imagery of the plaquette thus relates both to his literary work and to the perception of Ibsen as a person.

This example is a modern striking in fine silver, produced by the Royal Norwegian Mint at Kongsberg after the original plaquette of 1895.

Norway
Henrik Ibsen, 1828–1906
Plaquette, original design of 1895 – modern striking
Silver / 122.3 g / .999
Royal Norwegian Mint, Kongsberg