Plattegrond van Brielle 1632

This is an anonymous engraving of Brielle, a town in the Netherlands. Note how the layout is not merely practical, but also symbolic. The walled structure, a clear indication of defense and security, echoes a primal human need to protect against the unknown. Consider the recurring motif of the circle – the encompassing wall. This isn't just a barrier; it's a symbol found across cultures, from ancient mandalas to medieval city plans. The circle represents wholeness, enclosure, and the self. Here, the walls embrace and define Brielle, turning chaos into cosmos. This symbol predates any city, appearing in countless cultures. The protective circle is echoed in art throughout time. It transcends mere architecture and touches a collective memory. The very act of mapping, of rendering the world into a graspable form, speaks to our inherent desire to order and understand. As you gaze upon this "Plattegrond," consider how it connects us to both the practical and the profoundly symbolic in our shared human story.