Museum De Reede: A Haven for Graphic Arts in Antwerp

Museum De Reede, which opened its doors on June 9, 2017, stands as Antwerp's first museum dedicated exclusively to graphic arts. Founded by Dutch art collector Harry Rutten, the museum is located on Ernest Van Dijckkaai, in the historic city center. The museum's name, 'De Reede,' harkens back to Antwerp's maritime history, referencing the anchorage where ships prepared for voyages during the 16th and 17th centuries. The museum's collection comprises primarily graphic works, including lithographs, engravings, etchings, woodcuts, drawings, and watercolors, spanning five centuries. The core of the collection features around 240 works by Francisco Goya, Félicien Rops, and Edvard Munch, each known for their critical observations of the societies they lived in. Highlights include Munch's lithograph of 'The Scream,' and etchings from Goya's series 'Los Caprichos'. The ground floor hosts temporary exhibitions, while the first floor is dedicated to the three masters. Museum De Reede not only showcases historical works but also aims to create a dialogue with contemporary societal and cultural expressions. Its location near other cultural attractions like the Eugeen Van Mieghem Museum and Het Steen makes it a convenient stop for tourists exploring Antwerp.