A SEALED ONION BOTTLE RECOVERED FROM THE WRECK OF THE DUTCH EAST INDIAMAN HOLLANDIA, WRECKED 1743

the bottle with deep pontil, cork in situ and retaining original contents and now with good overall iridescence -- 7in. (18cm.) high: together with an autograph copy of the Sotheby’s Hollandia sale catalogue, 18th April 1972

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Provenance: from the personal collection of Rex Cowan, Project Manager for the Hollandia wreck

Built in Amsterdam by the Dutch East India Company in 1742 to a new design, Hollanida displaced 700tons, mounted 32-guns and was 138 feet long. On 3 June 1743, she left Texel as part of a Batavia-bound fleet carrying a large amount of specie. On 13 July 1743, she became separated from the fleet and struck Gunner Rock, Isles of Scilly and sank with the loss of all 276 souls. In 1968 Rex Cowan, using Dutch and English records, used advanced equipment, finally locating the wreck on the 16th September 1971.

Condition Report

As viewed.

We are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of this property. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Charles Miller Ltd is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD “AS IS” IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE.