Monument voor Amsterdam (nr. 2), 1787 1788

This monument for Amsterdam, number 2, was made in 1787 by an anonymous artist. The print presents a collection of symbolic images related to Amsterdam's history and identity. At the heart of the image is the coat of arms of Amsterdam, featuring three Saint Andrew's crosses. This symbol, originally associated with the martyrdom of Saint Andrew, has become inextricably linked with the city's identity, adorning everything from flags to buildings. See how the artist arranges them beneath depictions of civic life, suggesting their omnipresence. These crosses remind us of the resilience and spirit of Amsterdam, even as their religious origins fade into civic pride. Consider how symbols evolve, transcending their initial meanings to embody broader cultural values. Like the serpent eating its own tail, they remind us of the cyclical nature of history.