A New Collection for the Rijksmuseum – Inspiration Millstone Collars and Delft Blue
After creating the Girl with a Pearl Earring jewelry Vermeer collection, which I had the privilege of designing for the Rijksmuseum shop last year, I am thrilled to announce that I am working on a new collection that will be available exclusively in the museum shop in 2025. For this collection, I found my inspiration in the refined details of the millstone collars and the iconic Delft blue – two beautiful parts of Dutch heritage, both of which have left their mark on our history and continue to capture the imagination today.
The Girl with the Pearl Earrings above are made of silver, pearl and yellow enamel, inspired by the paintings of Vermeer.
An Ode to Millstone Collars
The millstone collar, a stylish yet intricate piece of lace popular in the 16th and 17th centuries, symbolizes the elegance and refinement of the Dutch Golden Age. The richly detailed, pleated collars framed the faces of the nobility and bourgeoisie of the time and can be seen in many paintings from that time. It was the precision and delicacy of the lace that inspired me to translate these elements into jewelry design.
In my new collection you will see influences of lace in fine patterns, soft lines and detailed structures that mimic the texture and craftsmanship of the millstone collar. Each piece of jewelry tells a story of refinement and craftsmanship, just like the lace of the past.
In my new collection you will see influences of lace in fine patterns, soft lines and detailed structures that mimic the texture and craftsmanship of the millstone collar. Each piece of jewelry tells a story of refinement and craftsmanship, just like the lace of the past.
Delft Blue – A Piece of Dutch History in Jewelry
In addition to the lace, I am also deeply inspired by the beauty of Delft Blue ceramics, which symbolize our rich history of craft and trade. The collection contains subtle references to the classic blue hues and the beautiful motifs that are typical of Delft Blue objects. I love the small accents in blue patterns. I like to give a modern twist to this age-old tradition.
With these elements I hope to bridge the gap between past and present, and create something that feels both traditional and contemporary. Delft Blue is more than a colour – it is a piece of Dutch identity that is recognised and appreciated worldwide.
New collection in 2025
I can’t wait to present this new collection at the Rijksmuseum. Each piece is handmade and tells its own story, inspired by the splendor of millstone collars and the timeless charm of Delft Blue. Whether you are a lover of history, art or simply unique jewelry, I hope this collection offers a special experience that honors the rich history of the Netherlands. Here is a little sneak peek of the design process:
Keep checking the website and my social media channels for updates and a first look at the collection. Sign up for the newsletter to stay up to date! I will definitely be working on it with great pleasure, and I am very much looking forward to showing you the collection in 2025.
