Strombus canarium shell from the wreck of the Dutch East India ship Witte Leeuw before 1613

This Strombus canarium shell, dating back to before 1613, was recovered from the wreck of the Dutch East India Company ship Witte Leeuw, a testament to the maritime trade routes and cultural exchange of the period. The shell, now housed in the Rijksmuseum, is a poignant reminder of the ship's journey and the exotic goods it carried across vast oceans. Its delicate spiral structure and creamy white hue showcase the natural beauty of the seashell, while its history adds an intriguing layer to its appeal.