Plattegrond van Veere c. 1649 - 1728

This detailed map of Veere was made by an anonymous maker, using ink on paper. The material itself isn't precious, but the process reveals a lot. Look closely, and you’ll notice the fineness of the lines, all done by hand. The map wasn't just about geographical accuracy; it was also about social control. Notice the regimented layout of the town, the clear demarcation of space, and the ships at sea, implying trade and dominion. Every element speaks to a society structured by power, and the immense amount of labor required reflects the time and importance invested in its production. This wasn't just a practical document; it was a statement. The act of mapping, of defining and recording territory, was deeply intertwined with governance and authority. The map is both art and information, blurring the boundaries between the practical and the aesthetic.