"Seven Bridges, Amsterdam"

By Michael Boss
Oil on Linen
20" X 30"
From the Collection of Jeff Tate, Cincinnati, Ohio

The North Sea was Amsterdam's connection for growth and prosperity, so early 17th century city planners designed a comprehensive canal system in a concentric design.

As horse-drawn carriages began to overtake water transportation, the city began to fill in some of the canals. Intense public outcry saved many of the canals and Amsterdam became known as the Venice of the North.