Sculptural medal collection
Some modern sculptors deliberately choose to work not only on a large scale, but also in smaller formats. This results in independent art objects that are sometimes related to the artist’s larger works. Our unique subcollection of medals features works by various artists, with an emphasis on the second half of the twentieth century to the present. Together, they offer a rich overview of Dutch medallic art in an international context.
Sculptural Medals
The sculptural medal flourished in the Netherlands during the 1950s and 1960s, largely due to the influence of V.P.S. 'Piet' Esser (1914–2004). As professor of sculpture at the Rijksakademie van Beeldende Kunsten in Amsterdam from 1947 to 1978, he trained an entire generation of young sculptors and actively encouraged them to create cast medals—not only on commission but also as personal expressions of inspiration and artistic freedom. His impact in this field was so significant that one speaks of the "School of Esser." The collection of Museum Beelden aan Zee offers a comprehensive overview of the work of both the first and second generation of Esser's students.
800 Medals
The medal collection currently comprises around 1900 pieces and is fully catalogued in a database. It has been built through both acquisitions and donations, and it continues to grow. Valuable donations play a particularly important role. The first benefactors were Theo and Lida Scholten, founders of the Beelden aan Zee museum. Their private collection formed the foundation of the museum's holdings. In 2000, the Peese Binkhorst couple donated their collection of modern Dutch sculptural medals to the museum. This important collection will be formally transferred to the museum at a later date. In the meantime, the museum is allowed to use the works for exhibition purposes.
Medal Depot
Visitors can request access to view the medal depot. The collection is managed by Jadwiga Pol: pol@sculptuurinstituut.nl. Please note: visits are only possible upon confirmation.
Wim Quist Vitrine
Since 2017, Museum Beelden aan Zee has featured a wall display case designed by architect Wim Quist. This space hosts rotating exhibitions focusing on the development of modern sculptural medals, as well as drawings and photography in relation to sculpture. The display case, located at the entrance of the Sculpture Institute, was made possible through a financial contribution from Frans Peese Binkhorst and Lideke Peese Binkhorst-Hoffscholte.