45 Peter Schenk the Elder (1660–1711) – Map of the Fortress of Brussels / Bruxellae, Brabantiae ad Sennam – Belgium (1695)

This fortress plan depicts Brussels (Bruxellae), capital of the Brabant region, with its defensive walls, bastions, and surrounding urban fabric. The original Latin and Dutch captions below describe the city’s bombardment by the French army in August 1695, one of the most devastating events in Brussels’ early modern history. The engraving emphasizes the military architecture and shows damage zones caused by the artillery strike. This map was included in Schenk’s cartographic series Hecatompoli, showcasing major fortified cities of Europe.

Peter Schenk the Elder was a prominent German-Dutch engraver and publisher based in Amsterdam. He was known for his detailed city views and maps, often working alongside Gerard Valck. His publications helped document the political and military geography of late 17th and early 18th-century Europe. The map was printed in Amsterdam shortly after the 1695 bombardment.

Artist or Maker:

Peter Schenk the Elder

Dimensions:

20 cm x 18 cm

Medium:

Engraving

Date:

1695–1711

Condition Report:

This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.