Huis ter Nieuburch in Rijswijk, plaats van de vredesonderhandelingen in 1697 1697

This print by J. Abraham Rietkessler depicts Huis ter Nieuburch in Rijswijk, the site of the 1697 peace negotiations. The composition is structured in three distinct horizontal registers. The uppermost section shows a bird's-eye view of the estate, emphasizing its symmetrical layout. Below, is an elevation of the main building, showcasing its architectural facade. The bottom register presents a detailed floor plan, offering an intimate view of the building’s internal organization. The detailed rendering and precise lines suggest an almost scientific approach, typical of architectural documentation. Rietkessler employs a semiotic system here, where each line and shape carries information, effectively translating the three-dimensional space into a two-dimensional schema. This formal arrangement reflects a broader cultural interest in order, clarity, and the mapping of space, challenging our perception of scale and perspective.