Jacob Cornelisz van Neck, by Cornelis Ketel, 1605. Amsterdam's Jacob van Neck (1564-1638) was merchant, discoverer and public official, a combination far from rare in the early half of the 17th century. In 1598-1599 Van Neck commanded the first successful Dutch trading expedition to Asia. He sailed there again the next year. After his return, in 1603, Van Neck remained in Amsterdam. He turned from sailor to patrician, holding major posts in the administrations of both city and Republic. Van Neck's right hand is hidden from view. He had been wounded on his second voyage to Asia during an encounter with the Portuguese off the island of Tidore, and had lost some of his fingers.