Rijksmuseum Amsterdam Secures Five-Year Partnership Extension with Baker McKenzie for Photography Collection
The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam has announced that Baker McKenzie, a global law firm, has renewed its partnership for another five years. This extended collaboration, which began 15 years ago, primarily focuses on the museum's significant photography collection, enabling the acquisition of key 20th-century and American photographic works and supporting future exhibitions.
Over the past decade and a half, Baker McKenzie's contributions have facilitated the acquisition of 375 photographs from the 20th century. This support has brought works by renowned international photographers such as László Moholy-Nagy, Germaine Krull, William Klein, and Helen Levitt into the museum's holdings. The firm's renewed commitment will continue to enrich this collection, ensuring the Rijksmuseum can maintain its high-quality overview of global photography developments. Notable acquisitions made possible through this partnership include pieces by Jacques Henri Lartigue, Lewis Hine, Man Ray, and Robert Frank, among others. One example is Sammy's Bar by Lisette Model from 1944.
Enhancing the Rijksmuseum's Photography Collection
The ongoing partnership is not only about acquisitions but also supports significant photographic initiatives. For instance, Baker McKenzie's renewed backing will aid in the preparation of an upcoming retrospective on American photography, spanning from 1839 to the present day. This kind of dedicated support allows the Rijksmuseum to present comprehensive exhibitions that delve deep into photographic history and practice.
Corinne Schot, Baker McKenzie's managing partner, emphasized the importance of cultural institutions, stating that the partnership with the Rijksmuseum, particularly concerning its photography collection, is a point of pride for the firm and its stakeholders. She highlighted the critical role of arts and culture in fostering connections, especially in challenging times.
A Leading International Photography Archive in Amsterdam
The Rijksmuseum's photography collection is a substantial archive, boasting approximately 150,000 images from the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries, encompassing both Dutch and international works. The museum's aim is to represent the entire history of photography, showcasing acknowledged masterpieces alongside significant examples from advertising, fashion, journalism, and academia.
This collection's international standing and depth are greatly attributed to the consistent support from partners like Baker McKenzie, as well as private donors and international funds. Many items within the collection are considered unique or exceptionally rare vintage prints, making the Rijksmuseum a vital resource for scholars and enthusiasts of photography.
The museum expressed its gratitude for all forms of support, especially during recent challenging periods, underscoring that funding from government, businesses, and private individuals remains crucial for its continued operation and cultural contributions to Amsterdam and beyond.
To discover more about the city's diverse cultural offerings, you can browse other museums in Amsterdam or explore additional cultural spots on the map through Musemap (musemap.art).
