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This is a 1625 engraving of the port city of Bantam (now Banten, Indonesia) by Levinus Hulsius.
Oriented with south at the top, the image represents the city’s strategic location on the northwest coast of Java, depicting maritime trade activity in the early 17th century. Bantam was a significant trading hub during this period, attracting Dutch, Portuguese, and Chinese merchants due to its lucrative spice trade, particularly in pepper.
The image includes a numbered legend describing various locations and activities in the city and harbor:
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A - City of Bantam
- Located on the island of Java.
- Ruled by its own king.
- Predominantly follows the Muslim faith.
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B - Dutch Ships (Dutch East India Company (VOC)
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C - Dutch Warehouse
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D - Portuguese Residence
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E - The River
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F - The Pepper Market
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G - The Dutch Market (the area designated for Dutch merchants)
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H - Chinese Dagger Market
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I - Porcelain Market
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K - Chinese Residences
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L - A Javanese Ship
- Described as "very fast and skillfully sailed," showcasing local maritime expertise.
This engraving is a valuable historical document, offering insight into early 17th-century Southeast Asian trade, colonial expansion, and intercultural commerce.
![[ Spice Islands ] Moluccae Insulae](https://storage.googleapis.com/raremaps/img/small/103763.jpg)
