Van Noort at La Mocha

From 21 March until 24 March 1600 the expedition of Olivier van Noort stayed at the island of Mocha off the Chilean coast. Here they spent several days to trade with the local population before continuing onwards to St. Maria island. The Dutch bartered nails, beads and other items for livestock, vegetables and fruits. The Dutch visited the local village, which they estimated to have about 50 houses made of straw. They were not allowed near them, though, and were not allowed to approach the women. The women were called by their husbands and sat kneeling in circles. After a few days of friendly bartering the Dutch again left the island.

On the image we see the Dutch using boats to land at the shore of La Mocha. The village they visit has nearly arranged gardens or agricultural lands. On the left and right two animals resembling llama’s face towards the Dutch visitors. In the background the women kneel in two circles near a small river. In the background we see the hilly landscape of the island.