Museum Het Rembrandthuis (Rembrandt House Museum), Amsterdam (must see)

This old house in Amsterdam's Jodenbreestraat, with an ornate facade adorned with intricate wooden shutters and an elaborate pediment, was once the home and studio of the Dutch painter Rembrandt van Rijn. Commonly known as Rembrandt, he was a prominent 17th-century figure, rightfully acclaimed as one of the foremost artists of the Dutch Golden Age—a period when the Dutch Empire enjoyed the zenith of its power and renown.

Originally built in 1606, the property served as the artist's residence during the pinnacle of his fame, a place where he resided for nearly two decades, from 1639 to 1658, and created some of his most iconic masterpieces, such as "The Night Watch."

However, the lavish expenditure on furnishings ultimately contributed to Rembrandt's financial downfall. After his bankruptcy, the house changed hands and underwent various renovations before it was purchased by Amsterdam's municipality, in 1907, and then restored and converted into a museum by 1911. The building was redesigned in the 20th century based on the inventory drawn up during Rembrandt's bankruptcy.

The museum shows Rembrandt's living and working quarters, giving the visitor an idea of the artist's daily life. Stepping inside here feels akin to entering one of Rembrandt's own paintings, with quintessential Dutch interiors featuring black-and-white tiled floors and traditional box beds. Two particularly captivating highlights include a nearly complete collection of Rembrandt's etchings, exhibited in its modern wing and etching cabinet. In Rembrandt's old house, there are also works of art by his teacher, Pieter Lastman, and his pupils, Ferdinand Bol and Govert Flinck. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year of the works by Rembrandt's contemporaries and (contemporary) followers.

In 2019, research confirmed that two pots found in Rembrandt’s old cesspool were used by him for mixing quartz soil, a unique canvas preparation method. These pots are now on display here.

Tip:
Reserve some time to browse the museum's quaint shop, offering a selection of delightful, high-quality souvenirs at reasonable prices. It is highly likely that you will want to get something as a keepsake for yourself too.