Gezicht in vogelvlucht op Den Haag 1608 - 1665

Jan van Londerseel’s “Bird’s-Eye View of The Hague” is an undated print, likely made in the early 17th century, offering a unique perspective on the city of The Hague in the Netherlands. This bird's-eye view was a popular cartographic convention that became popular in the Netherlands at this time. The image blends the traditions of both map-making and landscape painting to offer a view of a specific place. In the 17th century, The Hague was the political centre of the Dutch Republic, though it didn't have formal city rights. The production and distribution of images such as this one contributed to creating a shared visual culture and civic pride. This print speaks to the growth of cartography and printmaking as tools for shaping perceptions and solidifying civic identities. To understand this artwork fully, we might turn to period maps, city records, and other visual representations of Dutch cities, considering how such images played a role in shaping the cultural landscape of the time.