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This famous monogram was the symbol of what could be described as the world's first multinational enterprise: the Dutch East India Company. Over time the monogram came to represent the glory of the Company (the power of Dutch trade); whilst to others it is synonymous with bloodshed, forced trade and slavery.
Art Johnson, XTC, Paris
Tuesday, February 08, 2005 10:55 |
Before the 'Swoosh' and the 'Golden Arches' this monogram ruled the seas... beautiful form it may be - but no one can deny that it represents cruelty and oppression on a vast scale. In fact, it should be called the 'Dutch Swastika'!?
Anne Clarke, WST, London
Monday, March 01, 2004 10:41 |
Probably the first logotype for a multi-national. Beautiful typography! Great symmetry and fantastic negative space. Looks good really small.
Catherine Lampert, Partners
Tuesday, December 09, 2003 11:54 |
In VOC historiography the well-known pun exists: V.O.C. = Vergaan Onder Corruptie (Vanished Owing to Corruption) as in the opinion of the famous historian C.R. Boxer the major cause of the collapse of the Company was corruption of its officials. Nowadays not many historians would support this view, but the pun is very well chosen.
Els Jacobs, VOC Kenniscentrum
Friday, December 05, 2003 16:24 |
I once read that this monogram was even branded on slaves? Is this true?
Brigitte Champenois, Paris
Thursday, December 04, 2003 21:24 |
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