Plattegrond van Amsterdam met de oude stadsmuren Possibly 1720 - 1769

This is Jacobus Harrewijn’s etched map of Amsterdam, showcasing the city's old walls. The crowned shield with rampant lions, prominently displayed, is more than mere decoration; it's a powerful emblem of Amsterdam's civic pride and sovereignty. Such heraldic symbols echo through time. Consider the lion, a motif found in ancient Mesopotamian art, representing strength and protection. It recurs in medieval European heraldry, evolving into a symbol of royal authority and courage. The crown too, speaks of power, divinity, and legitimacy, tracing back to ancient rulers who wore diadems as signs of their elevated status. The shield, a symbol of defense and honor, is reminiscent of the Greek aspis, suggesting a lineage of cultural and military valor. These symbols aren't static; they transform, adapt, and resurface, each time imbued with new significance, yet resonating with echoes of the past, engaging our collective memory and subconscious understanding of power.