Plattegrond van Maubeuge, ca. 1693-1696 1693 - 1696

This is a schematic plan of Maubeuge, rendered around 1693 to 1696 by an anonymous hand. The Vauban-style fortifications, with their star-shaped layout, dominate the composition, symbolizing the strategic importance of the city. The star fort, a motif repeated across Europe, echoes the psychological need for security and control, transforming the landscape into a defensive mechanism. We see echoes of this form throughout history, from ancient city walls to modern military architecture. The wreath symbol, reminiscent of classical laurels, frames the image, invoking ideas of victory and prestige. The image's power lies in its ability to condense complex political and military strategies into a symbolic form, engaging viewers on a subconscious level with the emotional weight of protection and dominance. It embodies an interplay of historical, cultural, and psychological forces, a recurring theme in our collective memory.