Rijksmuseum Marten and Oopjen

One must-see exhibit is the Marten and Oopjen paintings, which have only been publicly displayed once, in 1956 for Rembrandt’s 350th birthday celebration. These paintings provide insight into the Dutch Golden Age, a time when the Netherlands was fighting for its independence from the Spanish crown and establishing itself as a republic. 

The paintings depict “regular people” rather than nobility, reflecting the emphasis on wealth rather than titles during this time. Art history enthusiasts will find it particularly interesting to note that these are the first and only full-length, life-sized pendant paintings that Rembrandt ever created, and that he painted every detail himself, rather than relying on assistants. 

These paintings are also representative of Rembrandt’s early style in Amsterdam, making them a unique contrast to his later, looser style seen in works like the Night Watch.