Klein fort aan een rivier 1632 - 1668

Robert van den Hoecke's etching presents a small fort by a river, a scene imbued with the visual language of protection and vigilance. The wooden palisade encircling the fort speaks of a time when borders were both physical and psychological barriers. Observe the tower. Throughout history, the tower has emerged as a profound symbol, a solitary structure against the elements, a testament to human resilience. We see it, for example, in medieval miniatures rising from illuminated manuscripts. Yet, here, this tower is less about aspiration and more about pragmatism, a vantage point for observing the landscape. The smoke rising from the chimney hints at the human presence, a persistent flame of life and labor. Consider how this differs from the ziggurats of Mesopotamia, ancient monuments intended to bring humanity closer to the heavens. Yet, both share a common thread: a desire to dominate the horizon, a primal urge to understand and control our environment. The collective memory embedded in these structures evokes a sense of security.