Drie krijgers van Bantam, 1596 1597 - 1646

"Drie krijgers van Bantam" is an anonymous engraving depicting four warriors from Bantam, a kingdom on the island of Java, Indonesia. Dated between 1597 and 1646, the artwork offers a glimpse into the culture of the Bantam people, showcasing their weaponry and clothing. The composition is characterized by a simple, yet effective, portrayal of the warriors in a seemingly natural setting. The detail in the weapons and the attire, despite the small dimensions of the artwork, is noteworthy. This engraving, housed in the Rijksmuseum, is a significant example of early European artistic representations of Southeast Asian peoples, highlighting their diverse cultures and historical context.