Inside the Rijksmuseum

Gallery of Honour

The Gallery of Honour in the Rijksmuseum is a majestic corridor that leads visitors to some of the most celebrated works in Dutch art history. Located on the second floor, this grand gallery is home to masterpieces from the Dutch Golden Age, including works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Frans Hals. 

The Gallery of Honour culminates in the display of Rembrandt’s “The Night Watch,” a monumental painting that captivates audiences with its intricate detail and dramatic composition. This space is designed to showcase the pinnacle of artistic achievement, providing visitors with an awe-inspiring experience as they walk through a hall lined with iconic paintings.

Cuypers Library

The Cuypers Library is the oldest and most extensive art history library in the Netherlands. Named after Pierre Cuypers, the architect who designed the Rijksmuseum, this library is a treasure trove for researchers and art enthusiasts. It houses an impressive collection of books, periodicals, and manuscripts that span centuries of art history.

The library’s ornate interior, featuring high ceilings, wooden bookshelves, and intricate ironwork, creates an atmosphere of scholarly elegance. Visitors to the Cuypers Library can explore a wealth of information on a wide range of topics, from classical art to contemporary design, making it a vital resource for anyone interested in the history of art.

The Gardens

The gardens of the Rijksmuseum provide a tranquil retreat amidst the bustling city of Amsterdam. Spanning over 14,500 square meters, these meticulously landscaped gardens feature a harmonious blend of nature and art. Visitors can stroll through manicured lawns, flowerbeds, and topiaries while discovering an array of outdoor sculptures and installations. The gardens also include historic architectural elements, such as a 19th-century greenhouse and a series of fountains and ponds. Throughout the year, the gardens host various exhibitions and events, offering a serene and picturesque setting for art lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Paintings

The Rijksmuseum’s painting collection is renowned for its breadth and depth, encompassing works from the Middle Ages to the 20th century. The museum’s highlight is its collection of Dutch Golden Age paintings, with iconic pieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Frans Hals. Rembrandt’s “The Night Watch” is a centerpiece, admired for its dynamic composition and use of light. Vermeer’s “The Milkmaid” is another beloved masterpiece, celebrated for its delicate depiction of everyday life. Beyond the Dutch masters, the collection also includes works by international artists, offering a comprehensive overview of European painting traditions.

Sculptures

The sculpture collection at the Rijksmuseum features a diverse array of works spanning several centuries and cultures. From medieval religious statues to neoclassical busts, the collection showcases the evolution of sculptural art. Highlights include works by prominent sculptors such as Adriaen de Vries and Artus Quellinus.

The collection also includes a selection of contemporary sculptures, reflecting the museum’s commitment to bridging historical and modern art. Visitors can explore a variety of materials and techniques, gaining insight into the sculptors’ creative processes and the cultural contexts in which these works were created.

Furniture and Interiors

The Rijksmuseum’s collection of furniture and interiors offers a fascinating glimpse into the design and craftsmanship of different historical periods. This collection includes intricately carved cabinets, elegant chairs, and richly decorated tapestries.

Visitors can explore period rooms that recreate the interiors of Dutch homes from the 17th and 18th centuries, providing a vivid sense of the living environments of the past. The collection highlights the ingenuity and artistry of furniture makers, showcasing the functional and aesthetic aspects of interior design across different eras.

Fashion

The fashion collection at the Rijksmuseum is a testament to the evolution of clothing and textiles over the centuries. This collection includes garments, accessories, and jewelry from various periods, reflecting changes in style, technology, and social norms.

Highlights include exquisite 18th-century gowns, intricate lacework, and avant-garde pieces from contemporary designers. The fashion collection not only showcases the artistry of garment making but also provides insight into the cultural and historical contexts that shaped fashion trends. Through these pieces, visitors can explore the interplay between fashion, identity, and society.

Applied Arts

The applied arts collection at the Rijksmuseum encompasses a wide range of decorative objects, including ceramics, glassware, silver, and textiles. This collection highlights the intersection of art and functionality, showcasing items that combine beauty with utility.

Visitors can admire delicate porcelain from Delft, intricate silverware from the Dutch Republic, and ornate tapestries that tell rich stories through their designs. The applied arts collection reflects the creativity and craftsmanship of artisans across different cultures and time periods, offering a comprehensive view of the decorative arts.

Ship Models

The ship models at the Rijksmuseum offer a unique perspective on maritime history and engineering. This collection includes detailed models of various types of ships, from 17th-century Dutch East India Company vessels to modern naval ships. These models are meticulously crafted, providing insights into the design and construction of historic ships.

The collection also includes navigational instruments and maritime artifacts, reflecting the importance of seafaring in Dutch history. Visitors can explore the evolution of shipbuilding and the pivotal role of maritime trade in shaping the Netherlands’ economy and culture.

Asian Art

The Asian art collection at the Rijksmuseum spans thousands of years and includes artifacts from China, Japan, India, and Southeast Asia. This collection features a diverse array of objects, such as ceramics, sculptures, paintings, and textiles.

Highlights include Chinese porcelain, Japanese samurai armor, and intricate Indian miniatures. The Asian art collection reflects the cultural exchange between Asia and Europe, particularly during the era of Dutch trade expansion in the 17th and 18th centuries. Through these artifacts, visitors can explore the rich artistic traditions and histories of Asian civilizations.

Words on Paper

The “Words on Paper” collection at the Rijksmuseum encompasses a wide range of printed and written materials, including manuscripts, books, prints, and photographs. This collection highlights the importance of the written word in documenting history, culture, and art. Visitors can explore rare manuscripts, illuminated books, and early printed works that offer insights into the development of literature, science, and art.

The collection also includes a significant number of prints and drawings, showcasing the evolution of graphic art techniques. Through these works, visitors can appreciate the role of words and images in shaping human knowledge and creativity.