Governor General J.B. van Heutsz, by Hannké, Batavia 1909. Van Heutsz (1851-1924) was 22 years old when he joined the Dutch East Indies army. At his own request, he was posted to the rebellious Atjeh principality. Van Heutsz's career was closely tied with the struggle against Atjeh. He returned many times and argued for a more aggressive military strategy combined with administrative measures. In 1898 he was appointed governor of Atjeh. It was his chance to implement these ideas. In a series of quick campaigns he conquered large tracts of Atjeh. His fame spread. He was awarded the grand cross of the Militaire Willemsorde (Military Order of William), the highest military honour: in the portrait he is shown wearing it. Back in the Netherlands he received a hero's welcome. In 1904 he was appointed governor general of the Dutch East Indies. He remained in this post until 1909, the year this portrait was painted.