Museum De Lakenhal receives private donation of rare glass
1 October 2015
In a remarkable way, Museum De Lakenhal has become the proud owner of a rare 18th century glass with an ingraving typical for the city of Leiden. A group of benefactors brought the means togehter to acquire the glass for the museum. The glass is exactly on time for the annual celebration of Leiden's Relief (1574) on 3 October. On that special day, everyone is welcome to admire the new highlight for free, between 10 AM and 1 PM in Museum De Lakenhal.
because of freedom
The 18th century lead glass is decorated with the slogan 'Haec Libertatis Ergo' (All this because of freedom). Therefor it must be a 3 October's glass and inextricably connected to Leiden's history. The glass was probably used on commemorative days for Leiden's Relief. Center position is reserved for the bundle of arrows symbolizing the even Free Provinces of the Netherlands, of which Leiden's Relief was a starting point. Beneath the bundle is a trophy, consisting of military objects and arms: banners, drums, canons, ramrods, halberts and pinnacles. Ever since the founding in 1874, Museum De Lakenhal has been collecting decorated glass works, but a glass with a remembrance of Leiden's Relief was not yet represented.
by and for Leideners
Recently the glass was seen on an art fair by Leidener Geert Crielaard. He immediately thought about Museum De Lakenhal's collection. Crielaard: 'With twelve individualse we have joined hands and brought together the required amount to buy the glass for Museum De Lakenhal.' In this remarkable manner, the twelve private donors display their commitment to the history and crafts of Leiden. Museum director Meta Knol: 'Never before it occured that twelve individuals donated to the museum together. We are delighted and are extremely happy with this beautiful addition to the collection.'
Leiden's Relief
Traditionally, Museum De Lakenhal will be open for visitors free of charge on 3 October, between 10 AM and 1 PM. Therafter, the museum will be closed. From this day, the newest acquisition will be on display in the history department of the museum.
