Plattegrond van Douai 1652 - 1662

This anonymous print presents a bird’s-eye view of Douai. Enclosed within robust fortifications, the city symbolizes order and protection. Yet, what truly captivates is the heraldic emblem: a simple, yet profound, spiral form. This spiral, like the cyclical patterns of history itself, echoes through time. We see it in ancient labyrinths, Celtic art, and even the swirling eddies of rivers. Carl Jung might suggest it represents the self, a journey inward towards understanding. Consider how this emblem embodies the city’s story—a place growing and evolving, yet always returning to its center. The spiral reminds us that even in progress, there is a deep connection to the past. It is a symbol of continuity, a visual echo resonating across centuries.