Pieter de Carpentier

Born in Antwerp, Carpentier studied philosophy in Leiden before he headed to Indonesia in 1616 where he participated in the conquest of Jakarta and provided assistance in the foundation of Batavia, the future company's centre in the East Indies.

During his career in Asia Carpentier held various functions. He was Director-General of the Trade, Member to the Council of the Indies, and member of the Council of Defence. In 1623 to 1627 he served as Governor General of the Dutch East Indies representing the Dutch rule in that part of the world.

After his tenure ended in 1627, Carpentier decided to return back to Holland as head of the five richly laden merchant ships. In the following years he was made a Member of the Board of the Dutch East India Company.

In his honor was named the Gulf of Carpentaria in northern Australia.