Amsterdam
Completed

Exploring The Myth Behind Laurens Janszoon Coster: 600 Years of Printing Legend in Haarlem

Investigate historical claims and rare documents surrounding the origin of printing in Haarlem.

Delve into the fascinating story of Laurens Janszoon Coster, a figure deeply entwined with Haarlem's history and the enduring legend of printing. This exhibition meticulously examines the 600-year-old Coster myth, inviting visitors to critically assess historical evidence. Explore early printed works from significant library collections, challenging or confirming the narrative of printing's invention.

About De mythe achter de man. 600 jaar Laurens Janszoon Coster at Stadsarchief Amsterdam in Amsterdam

Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for De mythe achter de man. 600 jaar Laurens Janszoon Coster at Stadsarchief Amsterdam in Amsterdam

Exhibition summary

This exhibition delves into the legend of Laurens Janszoon Coster, who is said to have invented the art of printing in Haarlem 600 years ago. It explores the origins of this myth, using significant works from library collections as evidence to examine the historical claims surrounding Coster's invention.

Curatorial context

The exhibition 'De mythe achter de man. 600 jaar Laurens Janszoon Coster' investigates the enduring legend of Laurens Janszoon Coster, Haarlem's iconic figure credited with inventing the art of printing precisely 600 years ago. For generations, this story has been a part of Haarlem's identity, and this exhibition marks its significant anniversary by tracing the origins of the Coster legend. Visitors are invited on a quest to scrutinize the historical claims, questioning how we know that the invention of printing occurred in Haarlem in 1423, and specifically by this man. To support this historical inquiry, the exhibition features key pieces from the institution's library collections, including some of the earliest printed works in the Netherlands. These rare artifacts serve as crucial evidence in the examination of Coster's purported invention. By carefully examining these historical documents page by page, the exhibition peels back the layers of the story surrounding Coster's contribution to printing, inviting visitors to critically engage with the historical narrative.

Admission and ticket notes

Admission to the exhibition is free. Opening hours are Monday to Friday from 9:00 to 17:00, and every third Saturday of the month from 9:00 to 16:00.

De mythe achter de man. 600 jaar Laurens Janszoon Coster key exhibition facts

Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for De mythe achter de man. 600 jaar Laurens Janszoon Coster at Stadsarchief Amsterdam in Amsterdam

Venue
Stadsarchief Amsterdam
Current status
Completed
Exhibition schedule
Nov 23, 2023 – May 10, 2024
Artist line / attribution
Information not currently available
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