Kelkglas met het wapen van Holland c. 1675 - 1700

This is a clear glass 'kelkglas' engraved with the coat of arms of Holland, crafted anonymously. Stemming from a time when the Dutch Republic was a major power, consider the glass as more than a drinking vessel, it embodies pride and identity. Used during feasts or important events, the glass, adorned with the symbol of Holland, helped to foster a sense of unity amongst its users. Think about the anonymous artist; were they consciously imbuing the glass with political significance, or simply executing a commission? The act of raising such a glass would have been a personal statement, an alignment with the values and successes of the Republic. Yet, it also served as a reminder of the complex social structures that shaped the era, with the elite classes often being the primary beneficiaries. Today, the glass remains a potent symbol of cultural identity and historical memory.