Rijksmuseum Amsterdam Reveals Immersive Look into 17th-Century Dutch Home Life
The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam is set to open a significant exhibition this autumn, offering an immersive perspective on 17th-century Dutch home life. Titled "At Home in the 17th Century," the exhibition, opening on 17 October, transforms the museum's Philips Wing into a series of nine diorama-style galleries. Visitors will journey through a typical day in a 17th-century household, exploring the intimate daily routines of families during the era of renowned artists like Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Frans Hals.
What to Expect at the 17th-Century Home Life Exhibition in Amsterdam
This exhibition provides an in-depth look at various aspects of domestic life, from family heirlooms to the contents of historical cesspits. For the first time in centuries, objects from the Zeeland-based Boudaen Courten family, including gilded furniture, portraits, and a unique bladder stone from a medical procedure, will be displayed together. Another highlight is the world of Utrecht artist Joachim Wtewael, featuring his portrait of daughter Eva alongside the actual table and linen cupboard depicted. The exhibition also delves into culinary insights from 17th-century cesspits in Hoorn, revealing the eating habits of families like the Soncks, and showing how Portuguese immigrants in Amsterdam introduced their own ceramics and flavors.
Petronella Oortman’s Doll’s House: A Digital and Physical Journey
Central to the exhibition are the renowned doll’s houses of Petronella Oortman and Petronella Dunois. Oortman's doll’s house, an elaborate artwork from the late 17th century, offers remarkable detail into household life of the period, meticulously crafted to replicate a real home down to items like scissors, sewing kits, and even mousetraps.
Coinciding with the exhibition's public opening on 17 October, the Rijksmuseum is launching a new interactive online experience. Narrated by British actor Helena Bonham Carter, this digital journey allows art enthusiasts worldwide to explore the miniature world of Oortman’s doll’s house, uncovering its secrets from the library to the cellar.
Behind the Scenes: Steef de Jong's Vision for the Exhibition
The distinct visual style of "At Home in the 17th Century" is shaped by Dutch artist and theatre practitioner Steef de Jong. Known for his work with Groots & Meeslepend, where he creates stage productions resembling life-size pop-up books, De Jong has utilized cardboard as the primary material for the exhibition's design. This approach transforms the Philips Wing into nine unique diorama settings, each depicting various domestic activities throughout a 17th-century day. Visitors familiar with his theatrical works, such as Operetta Land at Nationale Opera and Ballet, will recognize his signature style.
Engaging Activities and Experiences at the Rijksmuseum
To enrich the visitor experience, the Rijksmuseum offers several complementary activities. Beyond the online exploration, an audio tour featuring Helena Bonham Carter guides listeners through a day in the 17th century, available for rent or via the Rijksmuseum app. Museum educators will be on hand during weekends and Dutch holidays, from noon to 4 PM, to share insights into the period. Families can also participate in workshops every weekend and holiday, decorating their own Mouse Mansion rooms inspired by the exhibition’s doll’s houses. A sensory-friendly evening for adults is scheduled for 22 November 2025. Additionally, a companion book is being published, and special items like the Rijksmuseum Ruffle Mouse by The Mouse Mansion Company and a POLSPOTTEN tableware service are available, alongside a themed lunch menu at Rijks® Restaurant.
This extensive exhibition promises a fascinating journey back in time, offering a comprehensive view of Dutch domestic life. For more details on current and upcoming cultural highlights in the city, Musemap (musemap.art) helps you explore museums in Amsterdam or discover other cultural events on the map.
