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The Amsterdam Coat of Arms Map in Color
At Frisian Colorists & Restorers, we regularly work on unique historical projects. One of them is the Amsterdam Coat of Arms Map. This large engraving is rich in symbolism, history, and detail. It was an honor for us to bring color back to this extraordinary print.
A map full of meaning
The engraving is a tribute to the city of Amsterdam. What makes it even more special is that Amsterdam celebrates its 750th anniversary this year.
At the center of the map, the city is depicted, framed by an ornate border with the Latin motto “Conservat Utramque.” This means “She preserves both” – a reference to Amsterdam's role as guardian of both land and sea.
On either side of the map, figures represent the city’s prosperity. They symbolize seafaring, trade, agriculture, and craftsmanship. At the very top, Amsterdam is portrayed as a female figure: the “stedemaagd” or city maiden. She is flanked by the city’s coat of arms on the right and the city seal on the left.
Mayors and notable figures through the centuries
The map features an impressive collection of coats of arms of prominent Amsterdammers from the 16th, 17th, and 18th centuries.
These arms symbolize the people who shaped the city – from architects to leaders of trade and protectors of prosperity. Each shield tells a part of Amsterdam’s story.
Historical coloring with gold and silver leaf
We colored the map based on an old hand-colored example. The coats of arms were enriched with gold and silver leaf, which brings the print back to life even more vividly.
From a remarkable collection
This map comes from the collection of Jan Six. We worked on this project with great care and attention.