Dutch Home Life in the 17th Century

What was everyday life really like in the 17th century? At the Rijksmuseum, you’ll discover how domestic life looked for men and women, young and old, rich and poor, through objects and archaeological finds. From the routines of daily life to major milestones such as birth, marriage, and death.

To help imagine the time of Rembrandt, Frans Hals, and Vermeer, Dutch Home Life in the 17th Century presents objects from a variety of households. Many themes – such as balancing work and family, intimacy between partners, and dealing with grief – feel familiar and still resonate today, despite the vast differences of that era. Exhibition designer Steef de Jong has created the spaces as if they were life-sized dioramas, giving visitors an immersive glimpse into historical living environments. The dollhouses of Petronella Oortman and Petronella Dunois are central highlights of the exhibition.

Image: Petronella Oortman, Dollhouse of Petronella Oortman (detail), Library Room interior, c. 1686–1710, Amsterdam | Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam