Plattegrond van Maubeuge, ca. 1695 1695 - 1697

This is an anonymous print of Maubeuge, dating to around 1695, which was made using an engraving technique. This meticulous and time-consuming method involves incising an image onto a metal plate, inking it, and then pressing it onto paper. The material qualities of the print—the fine lines, the stark contrast between the inked and uninked areas, and the overall precision—speak to the skill involved in its production. The social significance of this particular print lies in its function as a map, intended to be reproduced and disseminated widely. The sharp lines and carefully planned composition indicate this was likely part of a military or strategic project. In this context, the print becomes more than just an image; it is a tool of power, a way to exert control over territory and knowledge. By understanding the materials and processes involved in its creation, as well as its historical context, we can appreciate the true depth of its meaning, and its importance as a historical record.