Model of the island of Deshima 1850 - 1851

This is a scale model of Deshima, the Dutch trading post in Nagasaki, Japan, made anonymously, its materials and exact date unknown. Likely crafted from wood, paper, and paint, the model meticulously recreates the built environment of this artificial island, a hub of commerce and cultural exchange during Japan's period of isolation. The creation of this model speaks to the hybridity of cultural exchange; its anonymous maker has left us with this representation of the architecture and layout of Deshima. The model may have served various purposes: as a tool for the Dutch traders themselves, to present the settlement to their Japanese counterparts, or as a souvenir. Whatever the precise reasons, the model offers a fascinating glimpse into the social and economic dynamics of the time, encapsulating narratives of labour, trade, and international relations. By considering the materials and making, we gain insight into the rich tapestry of history and cultural interaction.