The Rijksmuseum is undoubtedly one of the most photographed buildings in the Netherlands. Every year, millions of tourists photograph its façade or the masterpieces inside. As an Amsterdam photographer, however, I see this iconic building by architect Pierre Cuypers differently. I look for calm, perfect symmetry and the interplay of lines that often disappear amid the bustle of the city during the day.
In this blog, I take you behind the scenes of two of my favourite works from the Amsterdam – Rijksmuseum album on Werk aan de Muur.
The magic of an empty Rijksmuseum passage
Anyone who has cycled through the tunnel beneath the Rijksmuseum knows it is almost always full of hurried Amsterdammers, ringing bicycle bells and tourists taking photographs. To capture the pure architecture of this neo-Gothic passage, there is only one solution: get out of bed very early.
Standing there in the early morning, everything fell into place. The tunnel was completely empty and serene. Warm lighting beautifully highlighted the arches, detailed brickwork and imposing columns. By bringing my camera low to the ground, I emphasised the lines of the paving stones, drawing the viewer straight into the depth of the image.
Symmetry in the Rijksmuseum passage
Viewed 1.8 million times!
A wonderful milestone recently showed that this particular composition and atmosphere had not gone unnoticed. My photograph of the passage has now passed 1.8 million views on Google Maps! An extraordinary number, showing how the symmetry of this iconic Amsterdam location attracts attention around the world.
A wonderful milestone: more than 1.8 million views on Google Maps.
Would you like this celebrated focal point on your living room or office wall? You can order the Rijksmuseum Passage Amsterdam directly from Werk aan de Muur, on materials including canvas, aluminium and acrylic glass.
The timeless tranquillity of the Cuypers Library
Another hidden gem inside the building is the historic Rijksmuseum Library. While the passage breathes the dynamism of the city, the library radiates a deep, intellectual calm.
Photographing this room is all about capturing the soft natural light from the tall windows, together with the iron spiral staircases and towering bookshelves. It is a composition that brings tranquillity to any interior.
The Rijksmuseum Library
This work is another much-loved part of my collection. You can view the Rijksmuseum Library on Werk aan de Muur.
Bring Amsterdam into your home
Whether you prefer the crisp urban lines of the cycle tunnel or the classical atmosphere of the library, Amsterdam’s architecture never grows dull. Curious about the other works, including exterior photographs of the museum?
Explore the complete Amsterdam – Rijksmuseum album by Peter Bartelings on Werk aan de Muur.
Would you like to use one of these iconic Rijksmuseum images on your own website? You can buy licensed Rijksmuseum photographs here.
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