From Da Vinci to Playboy

The Rijksmuseum's extensive collection of facsimiles is one of the museum's well-kept secrets. The collection comprises hundreds of priceless facsimiles (copies) of unique manuscripts, published books, sketches and manuscripts. The term is derived from the Latin fac simile, which literally translates to 'make equal'.

Marvellous manuscripts
From Da Vinci to Playboy showcases 33 specially selected facsimiles. These are copies from original manuscripts from the Middle Ages to the nineteenth century. The exhibition includes sketchbooks and notes from greats such as Leonardo da Vinci, Canaletto and Inigo Jones.

Eroticism at the library
One of the rare exhibits is the four boxes of erotic Japanese prints, the originals of which are housed at the British Museum. Another striking exhibit is the first edition of the Playboy, sporting the famous colour photo of Marilyn Monroe as Playmate of the month. The original 1953 publication was printed in black and white on poor quality paper; the facsimile was produced at a later date, complete with imitation leather case and the characteristic Bunny logo.

From Da Vinci to Playboy runs at Amsterdam's Public Library from 3 December 2009 to 28 February 2010.