RKD Masterclasses
Discover how the RKD's physical and digital collections can support art historical research through introductory sessions and masterclasses. During the workshops, participants not only receive explanations about research possibilities and methodologies but also actively engage in a case study. The RKD offers various interactive masterclasses tailored for Art History students in their bachelor and master year.
Introduction to the RKD
This masterclass serves as an introduction to the RKD and is a must for first-year Art History students. Students will learn about the history of the RKD, the development of its rich collection, and how to search and use if for study and research through RKD Research. Three different introductions are offered, each with a specific focus: digital humanities, the attribution and identification of a seventeenth-century portrait, or Piet Mondrian. A combination of these introductions is also possible
Archival research
The RKD manages an extensive collection of archives from artists, art historians, collectors, art dealers, and galleries. In this masterclass, students become familiar with various types of art historical sources, such as inventories, correspondence, artist files, registers, and sales ledgers. What kind of information do these archives contain, and how can they be used in art historical research? Currently, the RKD offers one masterclass in English on research with source material:, about the archives of the influential Amsterdam gallery Art & Project (1968–2001).
Recognise the hand
Attributing art works has always been a fundamental aspect of art history. Distinguishing between the hand of a master, a pupil, or a follower is often subtle, and deliberate forgeries can be misleading. Recognising the correct hand and determining the authenticity of a work begins with careful observation. The RKD offers three masterclasses in English on this theme; on early Netherlandish painting and the connoisseurship of Max J. Friedländer; one on 17th-century painting and on 16th- and 17th-century drawings. In each of these masterclasses, students learn to articulate their observations through detailed visual analysis and to make well-founded statements about the attribution or authenticity of an artwork.
Iconographic research
To fully understand an artwork, it is essential to know what is depicted. Many works created before 1900 represent themes from the Bible, classical mythology, literature, and classical history. Over time, pictorial traditions have developed, with artists using recurring motifs and symbols. For modern viewers, these meanings are not always immediately recognizable. Iconographic research helps uncover the themes and symbolism in art works. During this masterclass, participants are introduced to the most important sources for this type of research, including Iconclass.
Information
- For some masterclasses, a maximum number of students applies
- Duration of each masterclass: c. 90-180 minutes
- Dutch or English
- This service is free of charge for educational users*
- Masterclasses are given on weekdays between 10:00 and 17:00
- Requests at least 6 weeks in advance
- For more information and bookings: events@rkd.nl