Fles met het opschrift: Na-trachten.werkt kragten 1679

Curator: So, here we have a truly fascinating object: a Baroque-style glass bottle etched with the inscription "Na-trachten.werkt kragten," which roughly translates to "Following one’s nature works powers." This dates back to 1679. Isn’t it lovely? Editor: It's so elegant and ethereal. Almost invisible until you're close. Does it hold power or is it more like... a hope? Like bottling potential? Curator: Precisely! The anonymous artist, through the glass itself, implies a kind of alchemy. I read the etching almost as a scientific principle being proposed by an alchemist... in glass. What do you see in the material? Editor: Well, the glass itself... the Baroque really knows how to use transparency. It feels delicate, almost precious, but also deceptive. Fragility masking... fortitude, maybe? I guess I keep coming back to the message! It's strangely optimistic. Especially for a time where survival must have seemed... less assured? Curator: It’s funny you say that! During the Baroque period, these sort of philosophical, science-related mottoes, mixed with art and interior decor were more commonplace. Think of Vanitas paintings and all the objects they contained! And remember, this piece is from the Netherlands, where trade, intellect and the arts, intermixed considerably. So, does the bottle hold medicinal potion? Scented oil? Or some other ‘spirit’? Editor: Makes me wonder about the rituals around its use. A morning draft of strength, or perhaps something for more contemplative evenings... Do we know if these sorts of bottles were common? I mean, was this purely decorative, or part of everyday life for someone? Curator: Absolutely used in everyday life! But, for a person with money! The glass-work itself, with the applied drawing and lettering required skill, and probably the employment of two different craftsmen or -women. To drink or decant liquid from something like this would give it, and you, a further, added level of, I dunno... je ne sais quoi? Editor: Well, thinking about it now, it holds a strange allure, this "invisible" power promise in see-through glass. Almost like the secret, personal nature of ambition itself. We are, after all, transparent to ourselves! Curator: I find it incredible that even today this bottle whispers its quiet imperative from across the centuries. Thanks! Editor: My pleasure! The bottle certainly has had me follow my 'na-trachten'!