Drie forten in Vlaanderen, ca. 1693-1696 1693 - 1696

This is an engraving of three fortresses in Flanders, dating back to the period between 1693 and 1696, created by an anonymous artist. The work reflects the intricate relationships between cartography, power, and identity during a time of shifting political landscapes. The detailed depictions of Fort Louis, Fort de la Kenoque, and Fort Francois offer a glimpse into the military strategies and territorial ambitions of the era. Positioned in a region of Europe marked by centuries of conflict, these forts symbolize the constant struggle for dominance among competing empires. One can imagine the lives of soldiers, engineers, and civilians whose fates were intertwined with these strategic strongholds. The absence of a known artist underscores a crucial aspect of historical narratives: the frequent erasure or anonymity of those who contributed to shaping our understanding of the world. "Drie forten in Vlaanderen" invites us to consider the stories of those whose voices have been lost to time, and to reflect on how the legacies of conflict continue to shape the world we inhabit today.