Dutch Masters
From the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam

Interview with Laurie Benson

Enrica Longo speaks with Laurie Benson, Assistant Curator of International art at the National Gallery of Victoria who is working on bringing to life the next Melbourne Winter Masterpieces blockbuster, Dutch Masters from the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam.

Only to be displayed in Melbourne, the exhibition brings together more than 100 sumptuous works from one of Europe's greatest collections.

What is the exhibition about?

It's a snapshot of life during the 17 th century in the Netherlands. During this time, known as the Golden Age, the Netherlands exploded into a major world power through travel, exploration and trade. The middle class grew in number, wealth and power. They became great patrons of the arts and art became part of everyday life.

What are you most excited about in this exhibition?

That's difficult because so much of what is coming from the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam is fantastic. The Rijksmuseum is currently closed for renovation, which has provided the opportunity for them to lend some of their most amazing pieces. We are really getting the absolute cream of one of Europe's great collections. Something I am keen for visitors to see is an ornate salt cellar, one of the finest pieces of silver ever made. The design is of a putto holding a dolphin. The Rijksmuseum is also lending a painting of the silversmith who made the salt cellar, Jan Lutma, who appears in the painting with the exact same salt cellar. This irresistible combination of seeing an object, and seeing it celebrated in a painting, brings the period to life. The salt cellar tells us much about the time. It represents the importance of the spice trade, and demonstrates the high quality of workmanship achieved by a gifted silversmith.

How many years has this show been on the drawing board?

The show wouldn't happen if there was not a great relationship between Art Exhibitions Australia, the Rijksmuseum and the NGV which dates back 20 years. This is why the Rijksmuseum is lending us such great works, including masterpieces by Rembrandt, de Hooch, and Frans Hals to mention a few. So many aspects of this exhibition will give visitors a glimpse of this remarkable period.

How rare is it for us to see these works in Australia?

It will be a rare treat for visitors. It's an astonishing collection. This will be the best overview of the period ever seen in Australia.

What are the distinctive qualities of this work?

Many of the artists depicted everyday life and they allow us an intimate glimpse into their world. Much of the art celebrates the humble. Everyday life became relevant and interesting subject matter for artists. Portraits, some of the artists themselves, were vehicles for people to express their personalities and their status in society. This period also features startling urban growth and patrons wanted brilliantly painted landscapes and still lifes to decorate their homes. The decorative arts were also of exquisite quality. People wanted beautiful vases, glasses, Delft ware and silverware.