Illustratie voor 'Den Arbeid van Mars' van Allain Manesson Mallet 1672

Romeyn de Hooghe etched this illustration for Allain Manesson Mallet's "Den Arbeid van Mars," capturing a Vauban-style fortress with its complex geometric fortifications. The star shape, dominating both the fort's layout and the superimposed diagram, speaks to more than mere military strategy; it echoes the 'star fort' design, prevalent since the Renaissance, a direct response to gunpowder weaponry. Consider how this geometric form – a symbol of protection and power – also resonates with ancient cosmologies. The star, a celestial guide, now manifests on earth as a bulwark against earthly threats. The emotional weight of such imagery is profound. These fortresses, with their imposing geometry, were not only physical defenses but also psychological tools, projecting strength and stability in an age of constant conflict. This etching is a testament to how human ingenuity, driven by fear and ambition, shapes not only landscapes but also the very symbols we use to define our world. The image of the fortress is one that will always stay with us, as it is constantly evolving, yet firmly rooted in the past.