Uniform coat of Willem Crul

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.