William I (1533–1584) was Prince of Orange and Count of Nassau-Dillenburg. Born in Dillenburg, he went on to become a Dutch statesman and military leader. 

This goblet was crafted in his honor and features not only his portrait but also the scene of the assassination of which he was the victim.

He fought successfully for the Netherlands’ independence from Spanish rule. In 1584, he died as a result of an assassination attempt after Philip II of Spain had placed a bounty on his head.

For the independence of the Netherlands, he was given the honorary title “Father of the Fatherland.” For his tolerance regarding religious matters and his level-headed nature, he was given the nickname “the Silent One.”

The Dutch national anthem, “Het Wilhelmus,” also refers to him.