Woollen Caps Worn by Dutch Whalers c. 1642 - 1800

This woollen cap was hand-knitted, likely in the Netherlands, for use by a Dutch whaler. You can see the tight, dense knit of the wool, designed to provide crucial insulation against the harsh conditions of the Arctic seas. The cap's form follows function. It's a simple, utilitarian object, but rich in social history. Each stitch represents hours of labour, probably by a family member, reinforcing the communal nature of whaling. It was a dangerous but vital industry for the Dutch economy. The presence of such an artifact underscores the deep intertwining of craft and industry. While not a high art object, the cap embodies skill, resourcefulness, and the human stories behind maritime commerce. It reminds us that even the most humble objects can carry profound cultural significance.