Japanse koophandel; Hof van de koning van de Calaminhans 1682 - 1733

This 17th-century engraving by Romeyn de Hooghe, titled "Japanse koophandel; Hof van de koning van de Calaminhans" depicts the Dutch East India Company's trade interactions in Asia. The intricate artwork, currently housed in the Rijksmuseum, showcases the diverse cultures of the time. The left side depicts a bustling scene with a ship arriving at a Japanese harbor, showcasing the trade of goods and the exchange between merchants. The right side portrays the court of the King of Calaminhan, showcasing the opulent and hierarchical nature of the royal court in the region. The detailed engravings, coupled with the inclusion of text in both Dutch and Latin, offer a glimpse into the complexities of trade and cultural exchange in the 17th century.