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Yatagan of Lieutenant Willem Crul
Public domain

Yatagan of Lieutenant Willem Crul

anonymous · c. 1500 - 1950 · silver leaf; iron (metal)

From the collection of Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam. Free to download, adapt and use — no permission needed.

About this work

Willem Crul's uniform robe and yatagan, 18th century. Rear-Admiral Willem Crul (1721-1781) was unaware that war had started when a British fleet surrounded him in 1781 on his approach to St Eustatius. Crul thought that this was a courtesy visit and so decided to wear his official uniform. This made him an easy target for the British marksman who killed him. The 'yatagan' is a Turkish sabre. To own one was a sign of heroism and courage, and was identified with the Christian knights who fought the Turks.

Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam’s own description
Credit lineYatagan van Schout bij Nacht Willem Crul. c. 1500 - 1950. anonymous. Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam. Public domain.

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