Mesdag Collectie - Museum

In the atmospheric museum of the Mesdag Collection in The Hague, you step into the world of Hendrik Willem Mesdag and his wife Sientje Mesdag-van Houten. This remarkable museum showcases their exceptional private collection filled with masterpieces from The Hague School and the Barbizon School. The museum still breathes the unique 19th-century atmosphere of the artistic life of the Mesdag couple.
What Can You Expect at the Mesdag Collection Museum?
Charming Private Museum (since 1887): The collection has been on display since 1887 in the intimate museum next to the former home of the Mesdag couple. Its authentic 19th-century character has been carefully preserved.
- The Lives of Hendrik Willem & Sientje Mesdag: Discover more about Hendrik, who only at the age of 35 left his business career behind to pursue art and became one of the Netherlands’ greatest marine painters. His wife Sientje, an accomplished artist herself, painted still lifes and landscapes and played a significant role in The Hague’s art scene.
- Temporary Exhibitions: Changing exhibitions are held in the former residence of the Mesdag couple, complementing the permanent collection or offering new perspectives on 19th-century artistic life.
- Historic Art Collection: The Mesdags collected not only paintings but also drawings, ceramics and Japanese art. The collection grew so quickly that in 1887 Mesdag built his own museum, where he personally guided visitors on Sunday mornings.
Near the Panorama of Scheveningen: Within walking distance you’ll find Mesdag’s world-famous “Panorama of Scheveningen”, an impressive 360° painting that is definitely worth a visit.
Top Highlights
Masterpieces from the 19th century
Paintings of the Barbizon School: Landscapes and realistic nature scenes by artists such as Charles-François Daubigny, Théodore Rousseau and Jean-François Millet.
- Art from The Hague School: Works by Jozef Israëls, Anton Mauve, the Maris brothers and other leading Dutch artists.
- The Mesdag Studios: Gain a unique glimpse into the working world of Hendrik & Sientje Mesdag.
- Japanese Art and Ceramics: Special objects collected by Mesdag during his travels and art fairs.
- 19th-Century Museum Interior: Wander through the historic museum rooms that radiate the atmosphere of Mesdag’s era.
A Unique Art Experience in The Hague
The Mesdag Collection offers a remarkable insight into the lives, tastes and passions of two influential artists of The Hague School. The museum is ideal for lovers of art, history and authentic museum settings.
Practical Information
- Location: The museum is located at Laan van Meerdervoort 7-F in The Hague, close to the Panorama of Scheveningen.
- Opening Times: For current opening hours, consult the official website of the Mesdag Collection.
Immerse yourself in the world of 19th-century art and experience the heritage of Hendrik & Sientje Mesdag at the Mesdag Collection museum!
Furthermore Mesdag Collectie is near the following sights: Peace Palace (±175 m), Panorama Mesdag (±350 m), Guided Bike Tour through The Hague (±950 m), The Hague: Guided Sightseeing Tour by Bicycle (±1,0 km) & Discover The Hague with the Hop-on Hop-off Tourist Tram (±1,1 km).
For information
Laan van Meerdervoort 7F, Den Haag
web. Website