Spotlight on Rijksmuseum's Masterpieces

While the Rijksmuseum's main building is undergoing major restoration work, the museum is taking the opportunity to turn the spotlight on some of its prize pieces as part of its Golden Age Masterpieces exhibit housed in the new Philips Wing.

Rijksmuseum Masterpieces

Feast your eyes on the Rijksmuseum's fabulous collection of Golden Age art and objects. You'll ooh and ah as you're taken past sumptuous portraits painted by Dutch masters, such as Frans Hals's Wedding Portrait and Rembrandt's the Jewish Bride. View the luxurious period furnishings on display, such as the tortoiseshell inlaid wooden cabinets, as well as the beautiful Delftware porcelain items, such as the surprising Delftware violin. And not to be missed are Hendrick Avercamp's much loved winter landscapes.

Exhibition highlights

The Night Watch by Rembrandt van Rijn.
One of the most renowned paintings in the world, this depiction of a troop of militiamen is Rembrandt's largest painting. Ever since it was completed in 1642, the painting has been a source of conflict, amazement, mystery, admiration, vandalism and analysis – which means it just has to be seen at least once. Numerous other works by Rembrandt are also on display, including the Anatomical Lesson of Dr. Deyman, Syndics of the Drapers' Guild and Self Portrait as the Apostle Paul.

The Milkmaid by Johannes Vermeer.
This portrait of a Dutch kitchen maid is anything but humble. The painting is small but incredibly powerful and features a fascinating use of light and shadow. With quiet concentration, a woman stands near a window pouring milk into a bowl. The light falls on her hands; her silhouette is dark against the white wall. This painting is certainly one of the Rijksmuseum's finest attractions. Vermeer fans will also enjoy his other works on display, such as the Love Letter, Woman in Blue Reading a Letter and The Little Street.

Home to so many of the world's most revered works of art, the Rijksmuseum is a must-see for any visitor.