This 17½ cent blue stamp from the Netherlands depicts Admiral Willem Joseph van Ghent (?-1672), a distinguished Dutch naval commander during the 17th century. Issued during the World War II occupation period, the design captures Van Ghent in elaborate armor, symbolizing the Dutch Republic’s proud maritime heritage. In the background, a warship sails under turbulent skies — a fitting nod to the Dutch Golden Age of naval warfare and exploration. This issue is part of a definitive series honoring national heroes and reflects both artistic restraint and patriotic reverence typical of wartime Dutch philately.