The Rijksmuseum, located in Amsterdam, is the Netherlands’ national museum dedicated to arts and history. Known for its extensive collection of masterpieces from the Dutch Golden Age, it stands as one of the most visited and revered museums in the world. This article explores the origins of the Rijksmuseum, its key moments, highlights of the permanent exhibition, and what modern visitors can expect. A guided tour of the Rijksmuseum can be a great way to enhance your visit, providing expert insights and a deeper understanding of the museum’s rich collection.
Origins of the Rijksmuseum
The Rijksmuseum was founded in 1798 by the Batavian Republic, a revolutionary state established in the Netherlands with French support. Initially named the National Art Gallery, it was located in The Hague and housed the collection of stadtholder William V, Prince of Orange, who had fled the country during the French invasion. In 1808, under the reign of King Louis Bonaparte, the museum was moved to Amsterdam, where it was renamed the Rijksmuseum and housed in the Royal Palace.
The museum’s current building, an architectural masterpiece designed by Pierre Cuypers, was inaugurated in 1885. The design reflects a blend of Gothic and Renaissance styles, with intricate brickwork, decorative sculptures, and stained-glass windows. Cuypers also designed Amsterdam’s Central Station, and the two buildings share stylistic similarities. The move to this iconic building marked the beginning of the Rijksmuseum’s status as a central institution in Dutch cultural life.
Key Moments in Rijksmuseum’s History
Over its long history, the Rijksmuseum has witnessed numerous significant events and exhibitions. Here are some of the key moments:
- The 1885 Opening: The grand opening of the current building in 1885 marked a new era for the Rijksmuseum. It provided a grand space for the growing collection, which by then included some of the most important works of Dutch art.
- The Acquisition of Rembrandt’s “The Night Watch”: One of the most iconic paintings in the museum’s collection, “The Night Watch” by Rembrandt van Rijn, has been part of the Rijksmuseum since 1808. The painting has undergone several restorations, with the most recent restoration project, “Operation Night Watch,” beginning in 2019, live-streamed for the public.
- World War II: During World War II, the museum’s collection was hidden in various locations around the Netherlands to protect it from Nazi looting. The building itself was used by the Germans as an office, and parts of the collection were moved to the nearby St. Bavo Church in Haarlem.
- The 2013 Reopening: After a ten-year renovation, the Rijksmuseum reopened in 2013 with a spectacular new layout that preserved the building’s historic features while modernizing the exhibition spaces. This renovation allowed for a more chronological display of the collection, providing a coherent narrative of Dutch art and history.
- “Vermeer” Exhibition 2023: The 2023 exhibition dedicated to Johannes Vermeer was one of the most successful in the museum’s history, drawing international attention. It brought together 28 of Vermeer’s 35 known paintings, a feat never before accomplished.
Van Gogh and Rijksmuseum Semi-Private Tour With Reserved Entry
Skip-the-line Stedelijk Museum Amsterdam, Rijksmuseum Tour
Skip-the-line Rijksmuseum Private Art Tour with Transport
Skip-the-line Rijksmuseum & Rembrandt House & City Tour – Semi-Private 8ppl Max
Skip-the-line Rijksmuseum & Rembrandt House & City – Exclusive Tour Guided Tour
Rijksmuseum: Old Masters and the Golden Age
Highlights of the Permanent Exhibition
The Rijksmuseum’s permanent collection is a treasure trove of art and artifacts spanning eight centuries of Dutch and global history. Some highlights include:
- “The Night Watch” by Rembrandt: This monumental painting is the centerpiece of the museum and a masterpiece of Dutch Golden Age art. It depicts a group of Amsterdam militiamen in a dynamic and dramatic scene.
- “The Milkmaid” by Johannes Vermeer: A serene and beautifully detailed painting, “The Milkmaid” is one of Vermeer’s most famous works, showcasing his mastery of light and texture.
- “The Battle of Waterloo” by Jan Willem Pieneman: A massive painting that captures the momentous battle that marked the end of the Napoleonic Wars, this work is notable for its scale and historical significance.
- Delftware Collection: The museum’s collection of Delft Blue ceramics is one of the most extensive in the world, featuring intricately painted pieces that were once prized across Europe.
- Asian Pavilion: The Rijksmuseum also boasts an impressive collection of Asian art, including Japanese prints, Chinese porcelain, and Indian sculptures.
What Visitors Can Expect Today
In modern times, a visit to the Rijksmuseum offers a comprehensive and immersive experience of Dutch art, history, and culture. The museum is equipped with modern amenities, including a restaurant, gift shop, and interactive displays that enhance the visitor experience.
Visitors can explore the museum’s 80 galleries, which house over 8,000 objects. The layout guides visitors through a chronological journey, from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, with special attention to the Dutch Golden Age. The museum’s grand Gallery of Honour leads directly to “The Night Watch,” which remains a highlight for many visitors.
Temporary exhibitions continue to draw global audiences, offering unique insights into specific artists, periods, or themes. Additionally, the Rijksmuseum hosts workshops, lectures, and family-friendly activities, making it an ideal destination for visitors of all ages.
Overall, the Rijksmuseum remains a must-visit cultural landmark, offering a rich and varied exploration of Dutch and global heritage. Whether you’re an art lover, history enthusiast, or casual visitor, the museum’s combination of classic masterpieces and modern exhibitions ensures an unforgettable experience.