De Ambonsche Hongi of De Coracora-Vloot 1717 - 1770

This detailed engraving by Frederik Ottens, dated 1717-1770, depicts a fleet of "coracora" boats, or "hongi" as they were known in the Ambon region of Indonesia. The artwork, titled "De Ambonsche Hongi of De Coracora-Vloot", provides a visual record of a significant part of Indonesian maritime history. The meticulously drawn boats are arranged in a grid-like formation across the sea, giving viewers a sense of the scale and organization of this powerful fleet. The engraving is a testament to Ottens' skill as a draftsman and his interest in documenting the world around him. The artwork can be found in the Rijksmuseum.