Murex ternispina shell from the wreck of the Dutch East India ship Witte Leeuw before 1613

This Murex ternispina shell, dating back to before 1613, was recovered from the wreck of the Dutch East India ship Witte Leeuw. Now housed in the Rijksmuseum, it is a captivating example of natural history. The shell's intricate details, including its spiky exterior and the complex patterns on its surface, showcase the beauty and diversity of marine life. The shell's size and shape are indicative of the species, offering insight into the ocean's ecosystem from centuries ago.