The OLD CHURCH in 1600. Oude Zijds Voorburgwal. W.J. Blaeu. Antique Copper Engraving

Original antique copper engraving. Uncoloured
“ S. NICOLAES ofte OUWE KERK tot AMSTERDAM.”
Titel in ribbon in top of the engraving.
Attributed to Claes Jansz. Visscher.
From: "Beschrijvingh van alle de Nederlanden” by Guicciardini.
Published in 1612 in Amsterdam by Willem Janszoon Blaeu.
Format engraving: 25 x 31 cm. (9,8 x 12,2 inches.)

Framed in burr-walnut with coloured acid-free passe-partout.
Height: 43,8 cm. (17,2 inches.)
Width:  50,5 cm. (19,9 inches.)W.J. Blaeu

The engraving shows the Old Church on the Oude Zijds Voorburgwal from the south. De Oude Kerk (The Old Church) was also called St. Nicolaas-kerk. From the history is known that the Old Church is the oldest church in Amsterdam and started as a cross-church. It was mentioned already in the end of the 13th century and it is known that in 1309 sermons were hold in this building. The church is consecrate for Saint Nicolas and in the later years a lot of capels were added.  In 1571 the church reached his actual size but in 1566 the tower was already finished, possible built by Jan Jansz. Beeldsnijder. Famous is the organ, and the tower became a carillon (Bells) from the famous bronze-caster Hemony who lived in Amsterdam. In the tower is also the oldest bell, cast in 1450.