Kick-Off: Windows Reframed

21 February 2025

3:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Expert Talk by Zsuzsanna van Ruyven-Zeman on the Crabeth Window and the Second Mayor’s Window.

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Two iconic stained-glass windows from the Lady Chapel are returning to the Oude Kerk after five years, fully restored. From 21 February to 7 May, visitors can witness the reinstallation up close and, for a limited time, view these remarkable windows at eye level.

The reinstallation kicks off on Friday, 21 February. A towering staircase will allow you to be among the first to admire the vibrant stained glass up close. During an expert talk, art historian Zsuzsanna van Ruyven-Zeman will share insights into the history of these stained-glass windows.

Programme

15:30
Reception
16:00
Welcome by Mariette Dölle, Director
16:05
Expert talk by Zsuzsanna van Ruyven-Zeman, Art Historian
16:30
Drinks
17:30
End

Oude Kerk Come Closer Archive Session 06 low res photo Maarten Nauw

Two Windows, Two Eras
Two windows, separated by centuries, united in one story. One was created during the Catholic period, the other during the Protestant era. In Catholic times, stained-glass windows invariably depicted religious scenes. Later, Protestants favoured important political and historical events, such as this mayor’s window. Despite their different origins, they now share a common future. Thanks to careful restoration and innovative techniques, they are prepared for a lasting return to the Oude Kerk.

Crabeth Window: The Deathbed of Mary (1555)

This masterpiece by renowned glass painter Dirck Crabeth captures Mary’s final moments in a serene, intimate scene. It is the only window by the Gouda-based glass artist in Amsterdam and its surroundings. Normally placed high in the Mary Chapel, this is a rare opportunity to admire its exquisite details, intense colours, and deeply human portrayal up close.

044 OUDE KERK INTERIEUR MEI 2018 PH GJ van ROOIJ

Second Mayor’s Window (1761–1806)
A visual timeline of the city of Amsterdam: the Second Mayor’s Window is an impressive display of coats of arms belonging to mayors and city officials. Complementing the First Mayor’s Window in the south aisle, it offers a unique insight into municipal governance in the 18th and 19th centuries.

020 OUDE KERK INTERIEUR MEI 2018 PH GJ van ROOIJ highres website