Saucer with an image of the Four Days' Battle after 1794

This 18th-century saucer from the Rijksmuseum is a striking example of Dutch decorative art. The saucer depicts a scene from the Four Days' Battle, a naval engagement fought in 1666, where the Dutch fleet, under the command of Admiral Michiel de Ruyter, fought a hard-fought battle against the English. The saucer's design is framed by a gilded rim and a delicate floral motif. The scene itself, painted in shades of brown, portrays the intensity of the battle, with ships engulfed in smoke and cannon fire. This small piece of porcelain is a powerful testament to the Dutch maritime history and the cultural impact of a significant battle.