Tussen Ambacht en Kunst: An Exhibition on Zeeland Bird Wall Hangings and Dutch Decorative Art
Experience the evolution of painted wall coverings, bridging historical craftsmanship with contemporary artistic practice.
Delve into the fascinating journey of Zeeland bird wall hangings, from their origins as elegant 18th-century interior decor for the elite to their modern interpretation. This exhibition highlights the enduring tradition and artistic development of Dutch decorative art. Discover works by historical masters and contemporary painters, exploring the intricate balance between craft and fine art in wall coverings.
About Tussen Ambacht en Kunst at Bijbels Museum (Cromhouthuizen) in Amsterdam
Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for Tussen Ambacht en Kunst at Bijbels Museum (Cromhouthuizen) in Amsterdam
Exhibition summary
This exhibition explores the rich history and contemporary relevance of hand-painted Zeeland bird wall hangings, a traditional Dutch interior decoration. It highlights the craft of painted wallpapers from the eighteenth century to the present day, featuring works by historical artists and contemporary painters.
Curatorial context
The exhibition 'Tussen Ambacht en Kunst' (Between Craft and Art) delves into the tradition of hand-painted wall hangings, particularly those featuring bird motifs, which were popular in Zeeland during the eighteenth century. These 'behangsels,' or wall-filling paintings, were typical Dutch interior decorations for the elite, designed for specific spaces and often created by skilled artisans. While many historical examples have been lost or dispersed, this exhibition revisits their significance.
In collaboration with contemporary wall painters Jaap Snijder and Marcelo Gimenes of Snijder&CO, the Stadhuismuseum Zierikzee examines the past, present, and future of these painted wall coverings. Through sketches, reconstructions, and individual panels, the exhibition illustrates the prevalence and importance of this form of wall decoration in Zeeland's interior history, demonstrating how it exists at the intersection of craft and art.
Admission and ticket notes
General visitor information, including opening hours, is available. Specific ticketing details should be confirmed via the museum's official website or by contacting them directly. The exhibition is part of the museum's regular programming.
Tussen Ambacht en Kunst key exhibition facts
Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for Tussen Ambacht en Kunst at Bijbels Museum (Cromhouthuizen) in Amsterdam
Venue
Bijbels Museum (Cromhouthuizen)
Current status
Open now
Exhibition schedule
Apr 16, 2026 – Nov 15, 2026
Artist line / attribution
Featuring works by historical artists such as Aert Schouman and Abraham Meertens, and collaborating contemporary wall painters Jaap Snijder and Marcelo Gimenes of Snijder&CO.
Amsterdam
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