Voices Behind The Veil

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In this work, I critically examine the role of women in patriarchal societies. The starting point is an ancient coin of the Nezak Shahs, whose winged bull crown originally symbolized power and dominion. I wanted to reinterpret this symbol, no longer as a sign of strength, but as an expression of oppression and invisibility. The central element of the piece is a veil made of 345 stamped coins, hanging from the crown (over the face). Each coin bears terms such as "witch," "whore," "abortion," or "gender pay gap," referring to systematic discrimination, stereotypical role assignments, and women's lack of self-determination. Like a crossword puzzle, these words invite reflection on societal role models: Who defines them? And why? The crown's pink stone represents female strength, intuition, and healing, a deliberate contrast to the crown's original cold dominance. These qualities are still underestimated in many cultures today. This crown is meant as a wake-up call. It demands visibility, self-determination, and justice for women worldwide, regardless of culture or origin. The bull crown thus becomes a symbol of female power that could never be fully silenced, despite oppression.

The reinterpreted bull crown can be understood not only as a symbol for women, but for all oppressed voices of this world.

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This work was on show at Kunsthistorisches Museum (Münzkabinett) 2025/26

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Reference Coin "Nezakh Shahs"