Plattegrond van Huningue, ca. 1702 1702 - 1703

Laurens Scherm created this blueprint of Huningue around 1702, rendering its fortifications with detailed precision. The star-shaped fortresses immediately capture our attention; these elaborate designs were not merely functional, but symbolic. The star fort, a child of the Renaissance, echoes the era’s fascination with geometry. Observe how these shapes resonate with Leonardo da Vinci’s geometric studies, revealing a quest for perfection. But the star form predates even the Renaissance. Consider the ancient sunburst motifs found in Mithraic temples, which are potent symbols of power radiating outwards. The star’s protective aura transcends mere defense; it evolves into a potent emblem, a symbolic echo rippling through time. The image reveals not just a structure, but a psychological landscape, speaking to our collective need for security. This blueprint reminds us that the impulse to fortify and protect is a timeless act, an echo resonating across the ages.