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

This is a Bursa rubeta shell recovered from the wreck of the Witte Leeuw, a Dutch East India Company ship that sank in 1613. This shell, now residing in the Rijksmuseum, carries with it a wealth of historical and cultural significance. Consider how the Witte Leeuw was part of the vast Dutch trading network in the 17th century. The ship's journey, its precious cargo, and ultimately its demise, reflect the economic ambitions and risks of the Dutch Golden Age. It speaks volumes about the global exchange of goods, ideas, and unfortunately, also exploitation and colonialism. The ship's manifest, when compared to other archival sources, can reveal the intricate web of trade routes and commodities that fueled European expansion. Studying this shell alongside shipping records and company documents allows us to better understand the social conditions that made such voyages possible. By examining the shell and its provenance, we can gain insights into the complex interplay of maritime history, global trade, and colonial power.