Museum De Reede: A Sanctuary of Graphic Art

Museum De Reede, opened in 2017, is a cultural gem in Antwerp, Belgium, dedicated to the art of graphics. 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. It is fittingly located on Ernest Van Dijckkaai, the former site of shipping company offices.The museum was founded by Dutch entrepreneur and art collector Harry Rutten, who sought to make his extensive collection of graphic art permanently accessible to the public. The permanent collection features works by Francisco Goya, Félicien Rops, and Edvard Munch, displayed as critical observations of their times within their artistic and social contexts. Visitors can view lithographs, engravings, etchings, woodcuts, drawings, and watercolors spanning five centuries. Highlights include Munch's emotionally charged lithographs, Goya's satirical etchings, and Rops' explorations of sex and death.In addition to its permanent collection, Museum De Reede hosts temporary exhibitions, connecting historical works with contemporary societal and cultural expressions. These exhibitions, both monographic and thematic, showcase Belgian and international artists, creating a dynamic and lively museum experience. The museum is located near other cultural attractions, such as the Eugeen Van Mieghem Museum and Het Steen, making it easy to incorporate into a broader exploration of Antwerp.