Cornelis Bouwmeester (Rotterdam 1652-1733)

Bouwmeester's composition shows a spectacular and most accurate view of the waterfront of 17th century Rotterdam, as seen from the south, from the river Maas. The city's landmarks can be clearly discerned; starting from the east at the Oude Haven with its large Ooster and smaller Wester Oude Hoofdpoort on each side of the harbour entrance; in between, the Zeekantoor van de Admiraliteit op de Maeze can be distinguished. Going west along the Boompjes and past the Laurenskerk in the distance, to Leuvehaven, Rotterdam's main port, with its small Ooster and large Wester Oude Hoofdpoort, also called Witte Poort. Even further west the Schiedamse Poort at the edge of the city. The centre foreground of the composition is dominated by two East Indiamen of the Rotterdam fleet. The foremost is accompanied by a yacht which bears the monogram of the Rotterdam chamber of the East India Company, the stern of the one further to the rear is adorned with the coat-of-arms of the city, propagating the wealth and might of Rotterdam in this proud depiction by its talented son.