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

This Cypraea arabica shell, dating back to before 1613, was salvaged from the wreck of the Dutch East India ship Witte Leeuw. Found in the Rijksmuseum, the shell is a fascinating artifact of maritime history and a testament to the global trade routes of the Dutch Empire. Its intricate patterns and delicate form highlight the beauty and diversity of the natural world, as well as the cultural significance that shells held in the 17th century.