Zuylenburgh Collection
4 min
Bert Degenaar, known from Van onschatbare waarde, has transformed his lifelong fascination with historical scientific instruments into the Zuylenburgh Collection, a leading private collection.
Scientific instruments are not only functional, but often also beautiful. Take for example a telescope, which allows you to see distant objects clearly, or a clock that shows the time precisely. Especially the instruments from the 17th and 18th centuries stand out because of their elegant design and luxurious materials.
Bert Degenaar
Bert Degenaar, known from the TV-programme Van onschatbare waarde, has had a lifelong fascination with these historical scientific instruments. This has led to his life’s work: the Zuylenburgh Collection, an internationally leading private collection. Degenaar is happy to share his passion and collection with others.
Rijksmuseum Boerhaave and Bert Degenaar have a strong bond. Their shared love for the beauty of scientific instruments makes joint projects almost natural. Previously, Bert provided a silver microscope by Antonie van Leeuwenhoek on loan to the museum. Now we present a selection of top pieces from the Zuylenburgh Collection in our permanent exhibition.
In a specially designed showcase—the “show-cabinet”—enthusiasts can admire among others microscopes by Thomas Marshall, a Fahrenheit thermometer and a clock by Gerrit Hoevenaer.
