GHENT.- The MSK houses more than 60 Dutch paintings from the 17th century, a period known as ‘The Golden Age’ by our northern neighbours. On the occasion of ‘Gent Kleurt Oranje’, this rich collection comes under scrutiny: when was it established and how was it subsequently developed? What is the relationship between the North and South? And is everything really what it seems? This autumn, we go in search of answers to these questions and shine the spotlight upon this unique, sometimes curious, collection.

An outstanding collection
The MSK boasts one of the most remarkable collections of Dutch painting outside the Netherlands. It includes works by masters such as Frans Hals, Jan van Goyen, Willem Claesz. Heda, Albert Cuyp and Roelant Savery. In addition, the museum owns some extremely rare pieces. It possesses the only known work by AE van Rabel, while Almshouse in Utrecht by Joost Cornelisz Droochsloot is the only known image of that institution.

Curious pieces
The collection also includes a number of works that can, with good reason, be called curious. Some works were painted over in the course of time or added to, a phenomenon that came to light during the restorations that were undertaken with the support of the King Baudouin Foundation. Other paintings appear to have been cut from larger canvases and sold separately – a typical practice in the art trade of the 19th century. And then there are the peculiar interpretations of certain works, some more credible than others...

Innovative presentation
The MSK reveals the fascinating story behind this 17th-century collection through a brand new presentation. In the newly renovated galleries, visitors can explore the link between the Northern and Southern Netherlands, encounter previously unseen works and view the paintings ‘in context’ for the very first time. The furniture, objects and the curiosities that provided models for the artist also are on display: dishes, pots and glassware are being exhibited alongside the still lifes, while prints, stuffed birds and shells are being shown in the vicinity of the animal paintings. Ostensibly, the paintings are exhibited in way that is similar to how they might once have been hung in wealthy households.

Le Boudoir des Mortes by Isabelle de Borchgrave
Isabelle de Borchgrave has created paper collars especially for MSK, a nod to the iconic starched ruffs seen in the 17th-century portraits. These are included within the historical presentation, under the title Le Boudoir des Mortes.