Kaart van de monding van de rivier Loire 1638

This map depicts the mouth of the Loire River, rendered with a focus on cartographic detail. The compass rose dominates the lower portion, a symbol deeply rooted in the human desire to navigate and understand our place within the cosmos. This emblem finds resonance across cultures, echoing the ancient mariner's quest for orientation. One might draw parallels to the magnetic needle of the Chinese geomancers, who sought harmony with the earth's energies. In medieval Europe, the compass became a symbol of divine guidance, leading sailors through treacherous waters. This yearning for direction taps into our collective memory, a subconscious desire to chart a course through life's uncertainties. Much like the mariner guided by the compass, we navigate our own personal landscapes, seeking clarity amidst the fog of existence. The compass is not just a tool, but a mirror reflecting our primal need to find our way.