The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam is one of the Netherlands’ most famous and historically rich museums, primarily known for its extensive collections of art, history, and cultural artifacts. While it is primarily focused on Dutch art, history, and culture, the museum does not specialize in aviation but they have one aircraft on display:
The B.A.T (Koolhoven) F.K.23 Bantam is a historic aircraft designed by the Dutch aviation engineer Hendrik Koolhoven and produced by the Koolhoven Aircraft Company in the early 1930s.
Rijksmuseum Amsterdam
+31 20 6747000
Daily 09:00 – 18:00
Closed January 1
Admission
Gift shop
To get there
- From Central Station: tram 2 or 5 (to Hobbemastraat)
- From Zuid/WTC Station: tram 5 (to Hobbemastraat)
- From Sloterdijk Station: tram 12 (to Concertgebouw)
- From Amstel Station: Metro to Weesperplein, from there tram 6, 7 or 10 (to Spiegelgracht)
- From regional bus terminal on Marnixstraat: bus 26, 65, 66 or 170 (or a 10-minute walk)You can also take the Canal Bus!
Aircraft collection
K-123 B.A.T (Koolhoven) F.K.23 Bantam
Aircraft and Aviation-Related Artifacts at the Rijksmuseum:
- Early Aviation Displays (Scientific Instruments and Models):
- The Rijksmuseum has a collection of items related to early innovations in flight. These are typically models or drawings of early aircraft designs or inventions, such as Leonardo da Vinci’s sketches for flying machines or early concepts of flight that inspired aviation pioneers.
- Historical Paintings of Flight:
- Some of the museum’s art collections include paintings or artworks that depict early aviation attempts or famous aircraft from history. These artworks may not be models of planes themselves but portray significant historical moments related to flight, such as the achievements of early aviation pioneers or significant moments in air history.
- Dutch Aviation Pioneers:
- Occasionally, the Rijksmuseum may feature exhibitions or displays about the Dutch aviation pioneers, such as Anthony Fokker, the famous Dutch aviation engineer and aircraft manufacturer, known for designing and producing World War I-era planes such as the Fokker Dr.I. His contributions to aviation are sometimes highlighted in the museum’s exhibitions on Dutch industrial innovation and history.
- Artworks Related to World War II Aviation:
- Some exhibitions at the Rijksmuseum may explore World War II themes, including the Dutch resistance and the role of aviation during the conflict. Though this is not the primary focus, aviation-related items may appear in temporary exhibits on military history and the Netherlands’ role during the war.