The Mesdag Collection

Don't you love it when you stumble your way into a secret? That's exactly how you'll feel at this little-known but altogether magical museum and its achingly beautiful garden. Walk through the Mesdag's former home in The Hague and fall in love with landscapes, still lifes, and more!Hendrik Willem Mesdag (1831-1915) was one of The Hague School's leading artists, who threw himself entirely into his love of painting at 35. Before that he was a businessman, so there you go, left brain, right brain, both work if you want them to.You can feel his passion oozing from every wall in his former home, now a gallery. Check out his renowned seascape scenes, the stunning landscapes and still lifes, some of which were painted by his wife, the equally talented Sina van Houten. You can also see the art they both collected from 1866 to 1903.The garden is gorgeous here too, especially on a sunny day. Carve out some time in your Hague itinerary for a peaceful artistic respite.Remember, The Mesdag Collection is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

Highlights

• •Explore this amazing museum in the former house of talented Dutch painter Hendrik Willem Mesdag
• •See the artist's seascapes, still lifes, landscapes and other art he collected with his wife
• •Spend some time in the beautiful museum garden, the perfect respite during a day of sightseeing

What to expect

Immerse yourself in the world of 19th-century Hague School art at The Mesdag Collection. Housed in the former residence of renowned marine painter Hendrik Willem Mesdag and his wife, sculptor Sientje Mesdag-van Houten, the museum offers a unique experience. Explore their beautifully preserved home, adorned with their personal collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts. Admire Mesdag's captivating seascapes alongside works by other Hague School masters, known for their realistic portrayals of the Dutch landscape. Temporary exhibitions delve deeper into specific artists or themes, offering fresh perspectives on this artistic movement. The surrounding gardens, designed by Mesdag himself, provide a picturesque setting to extend your exploration and soak in the artistic atmosphere. Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply curious about Dutch culture, The Mesdag Collection promises a captivating journey through art, history, and nature.

Things to note

• •Food and Drinks: While there is no restaurant on-site, a limited selection of drinks and snacks may be available for purchase.
• •Limited Accessibility: The museum is housed in a historic building with some uneven surfaces and narrow passageways.