Picturesque Dordrecht
A journey through time through the city
Dordrechts Museum
February 16 until June 1, 2025
Dordrecht is one of the most painted cities in our country. The city of Aelbert Cuyp was known in the 19th century as ‘the Venice of the North’ and according to Johan Barthold Jongkind was the most beautiful city in Holland. Throughout the centuries, famous masters such as Cuyp, Van Goyen, Turner, Schotel, Schelfhout, Whistler, Daubigny, Van Gogh, Witsen and Van Dongen were inspired by the beauty of the city on the water. The French impressionist Eugène Boudin even described Dordrecht in 1884 as ‘a true artists’ colony’.
Dordrecht’s location is unique. The city is an island surrounded by rivers: extremely picturesque and recognizable by the unfinished, blunt tower of the Grote Kerk. The historical importance of the oldest city in Holland and its reputation as the birthplace of Cuyp have also contributed to its great appeal to many national and international artists.
The exhibition Schilderachtig Dordrecht is the first to show a broad overview of views of and in Dordrecht. Many famous national and international artists who have depicted the city will soon be on display: Van Goyen, Willaerts, Jongkind, Boudin, Van Dongen, Daubigny, Jacob Maris, Witsen, Van Strij and Schotel. Schilderachtig Dordrecht is a surprising overview of views of, in and near Dordrecht through the centuries.
