This view is an architectural portrait of the Westerkerk in Amsterdam, and thus a notable exception to Van der Heyden’s usual practice of only loosely basing his townscapes on an actual view. Much of the picture’s fascination derives from the minute handling, with each element painted with the same degree of definition. Visual drama is conveyed by the sharp contrasts of colour, light and texture; by shadows slanting across the church façade, sharp rooftops etched against the clear blue sky, bright green trees and their leafy shadows overlaying warm red brick or dazzling whitewash, and glassy reflections on the canal.