"Glass to commemorate and to celebrate"

A major advancement in the making of glass was George Ravenscroft's usage of lead oxide in the chemical makeup of glass in 1674. This meant glass got a more transparent, clearer and sparkling appearance as well as increased strength. This also meant that the engravings on glass became more elaborate, which can be seen in the glasses present. The engravings were done in two techniques. First the diamond-point technique, with a tiny diamond on a pen, which allowed free decorations. Second, the wheel-cut technique; in which the glass is held against a rotating copper wheel, which gives a fine matte decoration against the lustrous background.
 

The Dutch have a long tradition of drinking games, and various glasses were made to get your guests as drunk as possible, the sooner the better. The Dutch liked (and still like) their drinks, and also during celebratory moments, the glass was raised. Often, with birth, marriage or any other family celebration, special glasses were made that were used to toast with and that would be passed to one another. But also amongst colleagues drinking was greatly appreciated. The glasses present show that the different chambers of the East and West India Trading Companies drank on the welfare of their ships and trade, and the glass welcoming people to Batavia shows that even upon arrival drinks were mandatory.