Plattegrond van Amsterdam met stadsgezicht Possibly 1686 - 1702

Johannes Kip’s etched plan of Amsterdam presents not just streets but a symbolic vision, steeped in cultural pride. Notice the cherubic figures adorning the top, reminiscent of classical Cupids, here they evoke a sense of divine blessing and prosperity upon the city. Below, allegorical figures recline, embodying Amsterdam's strength and abundance, echoing similar figures found in Roman victory monuments. The city's coat of arms, prominently displayed, features lions, symbols of courage and nobility, a motif that harkens back to medieval heraldry. These symbols tap into a collective memory, a desire to align Amsterdam with enduring images of power and success. It's as if the city’s planners subconsciously sought to inscribe Amsterdam into a lineage of greatness, drawing upon the emotional resonance of these time-honored motifs. This cyclical progression reveals how symbols resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings across different historical contexts.