Gezicht op Schenkenschanz en Kasteel Bylandt, 1734 1734

This is Hendrik Spilman’s etching from 1734, which shows a view of Schenkenschanz and Bylandt Castle. Note how these structures rise from the water, solidifying their symbolic connection to resilience and safety. The castle's imposing structure calls to mind the medieval fortresses, symbols of power and protection. The architectural form is echoed across time and geography, from the Tower of Babel to modern skyscrapers, each a testament to human ambition and the quest for security. Consider the psychological weight of these structures. The image of a fortress, with its inherent promise of safety, taps into a deep-seated human need. This yearning can be traced through various cultural expressions, influencing how we build our homes, design our cities, and even structure our social systems. Thus, the etching reflects not only the landscape of its time but also the timeless human desire for stability and permanence, echoing through the corridors of history.