Kelkglas met het wapen van Willem V c. 1760 - 1780

This glass, bearing the crest of Willem V, Prince of Orange, offers us a glimpse into the political landscape of the Dutch Republic. Though the artist remains anonymous, the glass itself speaks volumes about the social and institutional forces at play. Made in the Netherlands, likely in the late 18th century, this isn't just a drinking vessel. The prominent display of Willem V's coat of arms transforms it into a political statement. The House of Orange was central to Dutch politics, and displaying their symbol was an act of allegiance. Who commissioned it, and why? Was it for personal use, or for distribution as a political token? These questions are key to understanding its role. Through careful research into the archives of the House of Orange, we might uncover the motivations behind the artwork and the complex power dynamics of the time. Art, as this glass demonstrates, is never truly detached from its social context.