Plattegrond van Den Haag (derde deel) Possibly 1665 - 1682

Editor: So, this is Cornelis Elandts' "Plattegrond van Den Haag (derde deel)," likely from sometime between 1665 and 1682. It’s an etching, a map of The Hague rendered in meticulous detail. The rigid geometric planning feels very formal and considered. What do you make of this representation? Curator: What strikes me is how this image is both a representation and a construction of power. Think about it: a city depicted not as experienced, but as conceived, planned, and ideally controlled. This kind of mapping during the Dutch Golden Age wasn't just about geographical accuracy; it was about asserting dominion, making a statement about civic pride and advanced urban planning, wouldn't you say? Editor: Definitely! It feels like propaganda almost. Do you think its purpose was to impress viewers, to present a polished image of the city? Curator: Precisely. Consider who this image was for. Likely the city's elite, merchants, or even foreign dignitaries. The map presents The Hague as ordered, prosperous, and well-managed, subtly reinforcing their position and control. This kind of imagery played a role in establishing a cultural identity. How else would you explain the meticulous geometric presentation, wouldn't an organic depiction be just as effective as a way of showing a city? Editor: That makes perfect sense. It’s less about what The Hague *was* and more about what they wanted it to be. Curator: Indeed. This "Plattegrond" shows how art and cartography could be tools for shaping perception, cementing political power, and broadcasting cultural values within the society of the time. It reflects more about society than the city. Editor: I never thought of maps as potentially having political undertones like that, very eye-opening. Thanks for that great observation.