Two models of Fort Leyden 1769

This is Hendrick Lotsy's wooden "Two models of Fort Leyden". This relief map offers a look at 17th-century Leiden through a lens of military strategy, a time when the Dutch Republic was asserting its power on the world stage. These fortifications weren't just about defense; they were potent symbols of national identity and power. Forts like these were instrumental in shaping the social and political landscape. They dictated the flow of trade, influenced urban development, and reinforced a sense of collective identity. For those living in Leiden, the fort would have been a constant reminder of both protection and potential conflict. Lotsy's meticulous craftsmanship invites us to consider how power is constructed, both literally and figuratively. The model transforms the fort into an object of contemplation, prompting us to reflect on the legacies of conflict and resilience.