Kelkglas met het opschrift: Het welvaren van de Krimpenre-waard c. 1755

This delicate glass, etched with white lettering, commemorates "Het welvaren van de Krimpenerwaard" – the prosperity of the Krimpenerwaard. Made in the Netherlands, likely during the 18th century, it reflects a society deeply intertwined with its geography and economy. The Krimpenerwaard is a region defined by its low-lying polder landscape, reclaimed from the waters through an elaborate system of dikes and waterways. The inscription on the glass isn't merely decorative; it's a toast to the careful water management and agricultural success that sustained the community. This glass, then, becomes a symbol of civic pride and collective achievement. Pieces like this offer a glimpse into the social rituals of the time. It also hints at the importance of local identity in a rapidly changing world. To fully understand its meaning, one might delve into historical records of land reclamation, agricultural practices, and social customs of the Krimpenerwaard. The value of art lies in its ability to reflect and shape the world around it.