Bokaal met de wapens van Willem IV en de Zeven Provinciën c. 1725 - 1750

This clear glass goblet is etched with the arms of Willem IV and the seven provinces of the Netherlands. In the 18th century, glassware like this, produced in the Netherlands, served as a canvas for nationalist sentiment. The detailed engraving, showcasing heraldic symbols, reflects a culture deeply invested in its own identity and political structures. Willem IV became the first hereditary Stadtholder of all seven provinces, marking a significant shift in Dutch governance. The imagery on the glass is not just decorative; it's a political statement, reinforcing the power and legitimacy of the ruling house. To fully appreciate this piece, one must consider the socio-political dynamics of the time: the rise of the House of Orange, the complexities of Dutch federalism, and the role of art in promoting political ideologies. Research into contemporary political pamphlets and heraldic records could further illuminate the cultural context of this elegant goblet.