Gezicht in vogelvlucht op Den Haag (rechter plaat) 1608 - 1665

Jan van Londerseel made this bird’s eye view of The Hague in pen and ink around the start of the 17th century. The image offers us a literal overview, but also suggests a particular vision of the city’s social order. Here, visual codes are deployed to emphasize a sense of civic pride. The imposing Binnenhof complex, seat of the States General, is given prominence. Note the geometric precision of the gardens, an expression of human control over nature, mirroring the Dutch Republic’s ambitious plans for land reclamation and overseas trade. This image participates in a broader vogue for urban cartography. It's not merely a record, but a carefully constructed representation of the city as a symbol of power and progress. To fully appreciate this artwork, we need to delve into archives, maps, and historical accounts. Doing so reveals the potent role of art in shaping our understanding of the past.