Gezicht over de Oude Schans op de Montelbaanstoren 1870 - 1923

Willem Witsen created this view over the Oude Schans towards the Montelbaanstoren with watercolor and graphite. Dominating the skyline is the Montelbaanstoren, whose silhouette has long served as a powerful symbol of Amsterdam. This tower, originally built for defense, evolved into a marker of civic pride and identity. It reminds me of the protective towers seen in medieval cityscapes, symbols of security and vigilance. We see such towers not just in cityscapes but also in the backgrounds of religious paintings, subtly guarding sacred spaces. Over time, the tower has transformed from a military structure to a more benign emblem. The image evokes a feeling of a quiet resilience. It is a visual echo across centuries, resonating deeply within our shared cultural memory, constantly shifting and adapting.