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

This Hippopus shell, dating back to before 1613, was recovered from the wreck of the Dutch East India Company ship Witte Leeuw. It is a testament to the maritime trade and exploration of the 17th century. The shell, now housed in the Rijksmuseum, is a remarkable example of natural beauty and a poignant reminder of the ship's journey and its eventual fate. The shell's intricate, layered structure and the remnants of its once vibrant colors offer a glimpse into the wonders of the underwater world.