Amsterdam
Completed

Windows Reframed: The Return of Lady Chapel Stained Glass Masterpieces to Oude Kerk Amsterdam

Witness the unique display of these historic artworks up close after meticulous restoration at the Oude Kerk.

The 'Windows Reframed' exhibition at Oude Kerk Amsterdam celebrates the long-awaited return of two significant stained glass windows from the historic Lady Chapel. After meticulous restoration, these towering masterpieces are now presented at eye level, offering an extraordinary opportunity to study their intricate details. Delve into centuries of artistry, from Dirck Crabeth's religious scenes to the Heraldic Window, exploring themes of art preservation and Dutch history.

About Windows Reframed: Windows of the Lady Chapel at Oude Kerk in Amsterdam

Read curatorial context and practical visitor information for Windows Reframed: Windows of the Lady Chapel at Oude Kerk in Amsterdam

Exhibition summary

This exhibition marks the long-awaited return of two iconic stained glass windows from the Oude Kerk's Lady Chapel. For a limited time, visitors can experience these towering masterpieces up close, at eye level, offering a unique opportunity to appreciate their intricate details and historical narratives.

Curatorial context

After a five-year absence for meticulous restoration, two significant stained glass windows from the Oude Kerk's Lady Chapel are finally returning. "Windows Reframed: Windows of the Lady Chapel" offers a singular chance to view these exceptional artworks up close, installed at eye level. The exhibition presents two windows separated by centuries and distinct historical contexts. One window, "The Death of the Virgin" (1555) by Dirck Crabeth, dates from the Catholic era and depicts a serene religious scene, showcasing refined details and vibrant colors. The other, the Heraldic Window of the Burgomasters of Amsterdam (1761–1806) by the De Angelis workshop, originates from the Protestant period and serves as a visual archive of the city's mayors and officials. The exhibition highlights how these windows, despite their differing origins, now share a common future thanks to innovative restoration and framing techniques designed for sustainability and resilience against the historic building's movements. The restoration process, undertaken due to pressure and tension on the Oude Kerk's walls, involved careful cleaning, repair, and the implementation of a flexible frame system. Visitors can witness the reinstallation process and gain in-depth insights through expert talks. The Lady Chapel itself, a site of religious and historical upheaval, provides a poignant backdrop, reflecting both the preservation of ancient stained glass and the loss of other artworks over time. The restoration was supported by various Dutch cultural funds and agencies.

Admission and ticket notes

Visitors can book tickets in advance online. The exhibition is part of the general Oude Kerk admission, and visitors are directed to the official ticketing portal for booking.

Windows Reframed: Windows of the Lady Chapel key exhibition facts

Review exhibition status, schedule, venue context, and attribution details for Windows Reframed: Windows of the Lady Chapel at Oude Kerk in Amsterdam

Venue
Oude Kerk
Current status
Completed
Exhibition schedule
Feb 21, 2025 – May 11, 2025
Artist line / attribution
Featuring the masterpieces of glass painter Dirck Crabeth and the De Angelis workshop.
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