Lieutenant-Admiral Michiel de Ruyter (1607–76) by Ferdinand Bol, 1667. Repro ID: BHC2997. ©National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London. Caird FundThe economic success of the Dutch, the root of their wars with the English, supported a remarkable culture. Their fine and decorative arts flourished, including both portraiture and marine painting. A pair of grisaille paintings by Backhuysen reflects the importance of Dutch overseas trade. Storck's paintings of Amsterdam harbour show how the fruits of trade could be enjoyed, not least in collecting pictures like these.

In 1669 Rembrandt died, leaving many talented pupils including Ferdinand Bol. Several versions exist of Bol’s state portrait of Admiral de Ruyter, acknowledged even by his enemies as the greatest sea commander of his time. Cornelis Tromp, painted by Lely, fought against the English but was later a friend of Charles II, who made him a baronet.

Dutch shipping in an estuary by Abraham Storck, date unknown. Repro ID: BHC0932. ©National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, LondonThe Museum collection also contains examples of the superb contemporary silver medallions issued by the Dutch to commemorate their triumphs, one of which portrays Admiral Egbert Kortenaer, killed at the Battle of Lowestoft in 1665.