Naval Battle between Dutch and Javanese Fleets, 1611, Paper

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Title: Naval Encounter between the Dutch and Javanese Fleets near Bantam, from Pontanus’ Rerum et urbis Amstelodamensium historia, 1611 This … Read more Title: Naval Encounter between the Dutch and Javanese Fleets near Bantam, from Pontanus’ Rerum et urbis Amstelodamensium historia, 1611 This remarkable early 17th-century engraving illustrates a naval battle between Dutch East India Company ships and a flotilla of Javanese vessels near Bantam (modern-day Banten, West Java, Indonesia). The scene captures a pivotal moment in early Dutch–Javanese relations, when the first VOC fleets arrived in the Indonesian archipelago and clashed with local and Portuguese forces over control of the spice trade. The engraving originates from Johannes Isacius Pontanus’ Rerum et urbis Amstelodamensium historia (History of Amsterdam), printed in Amsterdam in 1611. Pontanus’ chronicle celebrated the rise of Amsterdam as a maritime power, featuring dramatic scenes of Dutch exploration and conquest across Asia, Africa, and the Arctic. This image is based on reports of early Dutch voyages, including those led by Cornelis de Houtman (1595–97) and Jacob van Neck (1598–1600), who made first contact with the Javanese ports of Bantam and Sunda Kelapa (Jakarta). In the composition, large, fully rigged Dutch galleons are shown exchanging cannon fire with dozens of smaller round Javanese craft, tightly packed and bristling with men carrying spears. The precision with which the artist rendered both European and local ship types makes this an invaluable early visual record of Southeast Asian maritime technology as seen through Dutch eyes. The densely engraved sea, rhythmic in pattern, gives the image a sense of energy and movement, while the tropical coast in the background hints at the exotic setting that fascinated European audiences. Pontanus’ engravings such as this one functioned as both historical documentation and patriotic celebration, reinforcing Amsterdam’s identity as the beating heart of Dutch overseas expansion. Condition: Good for its age, with light toning, a few small edge tears, and a strong, clear impression. Plate mark visible. Framing tips: Best shown in a simple dark wood or black frame with an ivory or pale cream mat. The contrast of the ships and waves benefits from warm lighting and a narrow black inner border. Technique: Engraving Maker: Anonymous engraver after designs for Johannes Isacius Pontanus, Amsterdam, 1611 See less