Blad voor wapenrand bij een kaart van de Purmer (eerste blad) 1683

This is a sheet for a border with coats of arms, made by an anonymous artist. The artwork is part of a map of the Purmer region. Heraldry, as seen here, was a visual language of power, identity, and belonging. During the time it was made, coats of arms served as symbols of lineage, property, and authority, especially in governance. The elaborate designs and motifs were carefully chosen to communicate status and affiliations. Each element – the crest, shield, and supporters – tells a story of family history and personal achievements, reflecting the rigid social hierarchies of the time. This sheet is not merely decorative; it embodies the identities of those who shaped the social, economic and political landscape of the Purmer region. It serves as a reminder of how symbols and images play a crucial role in shaping the perception of history, community and personal identity.