Bottle 1685

This green glass bottle now in the Rijksmuseum, reminds us of the intimate relationship between objects and personal identity. Bottles like this were common in the 18th century, often used for wine or spirits among affluent families. The delicate engraving adds a layer of personal identity, often featuring names, family crests, or mottos, indicating ownership and social status. The inscription on this bottle is hard to read, its swirling script almost obscuring the glass. But can we imagine who might have owned it? What was important enough for them to want to keep it close? It serves as a tangible link to past lives, reflecting a desire for personal recognition and remembrance. It reminds us that even everyday objects can carry profound cultural and personal meaning, and that our identities are often intertwined with the objects we cherish.