In an unassuming canal-side town-house, a short meander from the delightful Nine Streets and central Dam area, resides the Tassenmuseum Hendrijke or the Museum of Bags and Purses; the largest collection of bags and purses in the world, ranging from bags and purses of the Middle Ages through to the dynamic and practical receptacles of today. I heave a sigh of relief as I ditch the relentless rain for the warm embrace of history and alluring artistry.
My tour of the museum begins with a much-welcomed cup of Earl Grey and coconut macaroons, and the rich narrative that inhabits each and every exhibit. I am welcomed by Sigrid Ivo, the museum's elegant director and curator, who I soon learn is the daughter of the mother of handbags herself; the woman responsible for the vast collection of reticules I am about to discover.
"Let me tell you about the beginnings of the museum," offers Sigrid and I listen, earnestly. Sigrid reveals how her mother, Hendrikje Ivo's love for collecting antiques and rarities began many years before she discovered her passion for handbags; with the coveting of dolls and other curiosities - a hobby that turned into a trade, encouraged and supported by her husband, Heinz.
Hendrijke's love for antiques took her far beyond her home-town of Amstelveen and during a visit to the English countryside, she and her husband came upon an exquisite tortoiseshell bag, inlaid with mother of pearl and far too precious not to be given a more commendatory accommodation. So they welcomed the majestic piece of art into their home, plying it with questions about its origin and history; a German creation from the early 1800s, and therein began a collector's dream.
As the collection grew, so grew Hendrijke and Heinz' desire to submit their rare and beautiful collectibles for the appreciation and enjoyment of others. And so was born the Museum of Bags and Purses, as the couple opened their home to visitors, where for the first time they exhibited their delectable and exciting anthology of bags to the public.
As you might imagine, as more bags and purses made their way to the museum and visitors from all over flocked in, the Ivos had to seriously think about space and a new home for the exhibits, but with little capital, finding a new home for the collection was going to be a problem. In an act of desperation, they placed a notice within the museum, stating 'The Museum of Bags and Purses Hendrijke is looking for a bigger space. We want to make the museum flourish and we need the support of the city council, a foundation or a wealthy individual.'
"This is the amazing part of the story," Sigrid enthuses. "Things like this just don't happen, except in fairy-tales." She tells me about the saving grace who appeared at her parents' door, determined to help the couple out and offer themselves as a benefactor. Thus the museum was elevated, expanded and transported to the stunning interior of this canal-side town house in Amsterdam.
The story of the museum has me eager to peruse the extensive collection and Sigrid advises we begin in the 16th century. Interestingly, though not surprisingly, the museum's oldest bag is a man's bag; a bag probably worn by a travelling merchant. It's made of goatskin with several internal frames and eighteen secret compartments; a practical solution for carrying a variety of currency and personal items prior to the introduction of clothes with inside pockets.
Chatelaines, I find, were all the rage from the 16th to 18th century, a kind of inside out bag where a hook and chain component had attached to it a number of items including, a purse, keys, pin cushion and knife sheath. Like with many trends at the time, such fashionables were the play of the rich and privileged, but were only seriously and practically embraced once they had trickled down to those of lesser means.
The role of the bag changes throughout the centuries, I learn. Bags find their place as more than practical daily use, but as wedding bags containing gift money, as an enclosure for the bible or as sweetbags, containing gold, perfume or flowers. In the 18th century, bags become a token of love, embroidered with hidden messages to lovers and symbols of love to congratulate or cement a romantic union.
The museum overflows with history and narrative, contained within every bag and purse, each century telling a vivid and exciting story. But my delight firmly lies with the Art Deco bags of the 1920s and '30s. I find I could spend many many more enjoyable hours in this beautiful museum, but I have another appointment to make and must dash. Before I leave, Sigrid insists I take a peek at the museum toilets - a strange request, non? All becomes clear though as Sigrid pushes open the door to every cubicle to reveal glass encasements, presenting within each, a gorgeous bag embedded above each loo. I squeal with joy at the concept - I love this museum.
Leaving the museum, visitors have the opportunity to purchase bags and purses from a plethora of beautifully designed contemporary handbags, from brands well known, as well as from local designers. Sadly, my hollow purse doesn't allow me to adopt a new bag, but the shop is an exhibition in itself and I enjoy browsing nonetheless.
The Museum of Bags and Purses will fascinate historians, appreciators of art and fashion lovers alike. A museum well deserving of a perusal in a city saturated with museums and galleries.
Visit the museum's website for more info. www.tassenmuseum.nl
With the option of flexible fares, Standard Premier offers the freedom to work, think, or simply unwind. You will be presented with calm, spacious surroundings with on-board staff offering a light meal and a selection of magazines.