Illustratie voor 'Den Arbeid van Mars' van Allain Manesson Mallet 1672

This illustration for Allain Manesson Mallet's 'Den Arbeid van Mars' was created by Romeyn de Hooghe. It presents a plan of the fortified city of Estremos, dominated by its star-shaped walls, a clear symbol of military power and strategic defense. The geometric precision of the fortress echoes the Renaissance fascination with order, yet its purpose is rooted in conflict. This star shape, designed to deflect cannon fire, reminds me of similar defensive structures seen across Europe and even in ancient Roman fortifications. The star motif itself has a rich history, from its celestial associations to its adoption as a symbol of authority and protection. Here, in the context of war, it reflects humanity's enduring quest for security, a quest that, ironically, often leads to further strife. The image evokes a deep, primal tension between our longing for peace and our propensity for conflict, a psychological battle waged across centuries.