Gezicht op Rijnsburg, 1610 1727 - 1733

Abraham Rademaker created this view of Rijnsburg as an etching, around 1610. Dominating the composition is the church tower, its spire piercing the sky. This symbol, reaching towards the heavens, is a motif as old as civilization itself. Think of the Tower of Babel, or even the Egyptian obelisks. The church tower in Rademaker's etching serves a similar purpose: it's a physical manifestation of spiritual aspiration, a connection between the earthly and the divine. But here, it's not just about religious devotion. The tower also represents the power and stability of the church within the community. Notice how it anchors the entire scene, a constant amidst the changing landscape. The image is a powerful force, engaging viewers on a subconscious level. This symbol doesn't exist in isolation. Like a recurring dream, it resurfaces throughout history, each time evolving and taking on new meanings, reflecting the hopes and fears of those who create and behold it.