This richly colored 18th century Map of Jerusalem presents an imaginative reconstruction of the ancient town and the Temple of Solomon, blending topographical detail, biblical symbolism, and artistic interpretation. Published in “BIBLIA, Dat is, de gantsche Heylige Schrifture, […] Door last der Hoogh-Mog. Heeren Staten Generael…” (Dordrecht: Hendrick & Jacob Keur; Amsterdam: Marcus Doornick and Pieter Rotterdam, Anno 1702), it reflects the early 18th century’s fascination with sacred geography and the visualization of the Holy City.

At its center lies a bird’s-eye view of Jerusalem, enclosed by walls and organized in a highly schematic form that merges biblical narrative with Renaissance and Baroque cartographic conventions. The Temple of Solomon dominates the composition, rendered with elaborate architectural precision reminiscent of contemporary European palaces rather than ancient structures.

Surrounding the city are detailed vignettes illustrating sacred objects and figures: the Ark of the Covenant, the Menorah, the Brazen Altar, the Molten Sea, and priestly and royal figures such as King Solomon and the High Priest. Each element serves a didactic and devotional purpose—transforming the map into a visual theology of divine order and worship.
CHSOS Collection – item #1.