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.
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.