Hold on: Identity and Intimacy in Late Medieval Book of Hours

What is the ‘Hold On’ exhibition?

In Hold On: Identity and Intimacy in Late Medieval Book of Hours, the Rijksmuseum Meermanno presents over thirty Books of Hours from its own collection. These historical books are displayed alongside late medieval artefacts and modern and contemporary art.

Particular attention is paid to the women who commissioned, owned and used the books. Portraits, calendar entries, personal notes and signs of wear provide an insight into their personal worlds.

What are books of hours?

Book of Hours contained prayers that were read at fixed times of the day. They were intended for personal use, and many copies were commissioned specifically for this purpose. Owners could have the content and design tailored to their tastes and preferences.

These richly illustrated books were made from precious materials. At the same time, they were used on a daily basis. They were handled, read, written in and carried about. The traces of this can still be seen in the books today.

Which books of hours are on display?

One of the works on display is a book of hours commissioned for the Lochorst couple around 1460. It is attributed to the Master of Catherine of Cleves.

Also on display is a book of hours that belonged to Barbara van Hertsvelde and Willem Moreel, known for their portraits by Hans Memling. In addition, the museum is exhibiting one of the last surviving pouch books in the world. Thanks to its shape, such a book could be carried on a belt.

For the exhibition, the museum is collaborating with art historian and musician María Pandiello. She studies late medieval manuscripts and early printed books from the 15th and 16th centuries and is the founder of the Instagram account @visions_of_manuscripts.

Historical books and contemporary art

The books of hours are presented alongside works by Raphaëlle Benzimra, Dolf Henkes, Natasja Kensmil and Marenne Welten. Dakota Magdalena Mokhammad and Denys Shantar are creating new works especially for the exhibition, inspired by the books on display.

The artworks offer different perspectives on history, faith, rituals and identity. This creates a link between the personal stories of former owners and those of contemporary artists.

A closer look at a book of hours

Between October and February, thirty visitors will have the opportunity to leaf through an authentic book of hours and examine it at close quarters, accompanied by a member of staff.