A Herring Buss

This unique print features the earliest representation of a herring buss. This type of fishing vessel came into use in the 12th century to catch the herring that was so important for the Netherlands. Like many early engravings, this one was also made by a silversmith. The master, probably active in Bruges, was clearly trained in metal engraving. Overlapping masts, ropes and waves are confidently incised in the copper plate.