Bantam

Bantam © National Maritime Museum, London

Description: Established in 1602 by Sir James Lancaster, Bantam on the island of Java, was the East India Company's first 'factory' in Asia. Conditions on the island were extremely difficult for the Company's traders. Four hot months of weather were followed by eight months of drenching rain. Malaria was rife, as was cholera. The Company's trading post was also subjected to attack by Javanese and Chinese traders who mistook them for the Dutch.

Creator: Unknown

Date: c. 1714

Credit line: National Maritime Museum, London