De Overtuin (The Overgarden), Zaanse Schans
Over the road-ditch, there fore the name ‘over garden' style influenced by French garden architecture. Merchants who lived on the river Zaan often had a garden on the opposite side of the road: this ensured that they had an unobstructed view of the landscape, but it was also used as an ornamental garden. Landscape gardening was influenced by the French style. A statuette of ‘Fame', the angel with the trumpet, and a sun-dial were favorite centerpieces in these gardens.
