Rijksmuseum Receives Rare 17th-Century Drawing Book Donated by Van Eeghen Family
The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam has received a remarkable 17th-century drawing book from the Van Eeghen family, who preserved it for more than 300 years. Set to be displayed starting August 19, the Van Eeghen Drawing Book is regarded as a significant enhancement to the museum's Print Room Collection. Its survival is notable, as many drawing compilations from this period have been lost or fragmented. The book features approximately 30 drawings, including biblical imagery, with pigments that remain surprisingly vibrant due to minimal light exposure. Scholars have associated the work with Dutch painter Rombout Uylenburgh. Taco Dibbits commended the donation, which enriches the museum's collection of Dutch golden age paper works.
Key facts
- The Van Eeghen Drawing Book donated to the Rijksmuseum by the Van Eeghen family.
- The family stewarded the book for over 300 years.
- The book contains around 30 drawings, including biblical scenes.
- The drawings are attributed to Rombout Uylenburgh and his workshop.
- Colors remain striking because the drawings have rarely been exposed to light.
- The book will go on view starting August 19.
- The exhibition will include a substantial part of Uylenburgh's surviving work.
- Taco Dibbits, Rijksmuseum general director, called the book a highlight of Dutch draughtsmanship.
Entities
Artists
- Rombout Uylenburgh
- Taco Dibbits
- Van Eeghen family
Institutions
- Rijksmuseum
- Rijksmuseum Print Room Collection
Locations
- Amsterdam
- Netherlands
- Kraków
- Poland