Woollen caps worn by Dutch whalers c. 1650 - 1800

This anonymous 17th or 18th-century knitted cap, made of wool, would have been worn by Dutch whalers. The striped pattern, in a dark blue and yellow, is typical of Dutch folk art. It is interesting to note that this type of cap was worn by men of all social classes, providing practical protection against the elements. It was a common sight in the Dutch whaling industry, where men would spend long periods at sea in harsh conditions. This particular cap, with its faded colors and worn texture, speaks to the difficult and demanding lives of those who worked in the whaling industry.