Vestingplattegrond van Ardres 1656

This 1656 "Vestingplattegrond van Ardres" (meaning "Fortification Plan of Ardres") is an anonymous, hand-colored map of the French fortress town of Ardres. The artwork is a detailed representation of the fortifications and surrounding landscape, featuring a vibrant palette of blues, greens, and pinks. This plan is not only a useful cartographic tool but also a beautiful example of the artistry of 17th-century mapmaking. The piece, now housed in the Rijksmuseum, gives us a glimpse into the military and architectural strategies of the time.