Plattegrond van Bergamo (deel rechtsboven) 1704 - 1724

This is a detailed topographical map, ‘Plattegrond van Bergamo (deel rechtsboven)’, from an unknown date, created by an anonymous artist and held at the Rijksmuseum. The monochromatic rendering focuses attention on the intricate patterns and linear structures defining the landscape. The composition is dominated by regimented fields and fortifications, underscoring a human imposition on nature. Lines are used systematically to denote roads, agricultural plots, and architectural details, revealing a structured understanding of space. The map's function extends beyond mere representation; it's an assertion of control, reflecting early modern desires to impose order on the natural world. The sharp details and calculated perspective contribute to a sense of the artist's mastery over the subject. As a visual document, the map functions as a statement about power and knowledge, capturing not only the layout of a region but also the cultural values embedded in its depiction. It invites us to question the relationship between representation and reality and to consider how cartography shapes our understanding of place.