Zeilschip voor de Malabarkust c. 1841 - 1865

Petrus Johannes Schotel created this pencil drawing of a sailing ship off the Malabar Coast. Schotel lived during a time of increasing global trade and colonialism, in which maritime scenes were popular, reflecting both a sense of national pride and an idealized vision of Dutch power. However, we can't ignore the complicated histories of these ships. They were vital to trade, but also used to colonize and exploit resources. The Malabar Coast, now part of India, was a key location for the Dutch East India Company, known for its spice trade and also for its oppressive practices. What stories aren’t being told in this sketch? The labor, the exploitation, and the cultural clashes that occurred as ships like this one sailed across the world. It's a reminder to consider the full story behind seemingly simple images, encouraging us to reflect on the human cost of progress and the legacies of colonialism.