The Ultimate Guide to the Museum of Bags and Purses in Amsterdam

The Museum of Bags and Purses, also known as Tassenmuseum Hendrikje, is a unique cultural gem located in the heart of Amsterdam. Celebrated for its extensive collection of historical and contemporary bags, this museum offers a fascinating journey through the evolution of fashion accessories. While its doors may have closed due to the pandemic, the legacy and importance of this museum continue to resonate. This guide will explore the museum’s history, its remarkable collection, and what makes it a must-visit destination for fashion enthusiasts and curious minds alike.

Comparison of Handbag Museums

Feature	Museum of Bags and Purses (Tassenmuseum Hendrikje)	Other Notable Handbag Museums
Location	Amsterdam, The Netherlands	Various worldwide
Collection Size	Over 5,000 pieces	Varies
Focus	Bags and purses throughout history	General fashion accessories
Entry Fee	Adult: €9.50, Children: Free	Varies
Opening Hours	10 AM – 5 PM daily (before closure)	Varies
Special Exhibitions	Yes, featuring Dutch designers	Varies
Historical Significance	Founded in 1996; featured in a 17th-century canal house	Varies
Visitor Experience	Interactive displays, themed rooms, high tea options	Varies

History of the Museum

The Museum of Bags and Purses traces its origins back to the passion of Hendrikje Ivo, who began collecting handbags over 30 years ago. The collection started with a single handbag from 1820 and expanded exponentially. In 1996, this private collection opened to the public, evolving into a prominent institution in Amsterdam. The museum found its home in an exquisite canal house on Herengracht, an area known for its historical significance.

The Collection

With over 5,000 items, the museum boasts one of the largest and most diverse collections of bags and purses globally. The collection spans from the 16th century to contemporary designs, showcasing the evolution of fashion and societal changes. Visitors can explore various types of bags, including handbags, evening bags, and suitcases, all meticulously curated to tell the story of each piece.

Unique Features of the Collection

• Historical Significance: Each bag in the collection represents a unique moment in fashion history, reflecting styles and materials of its time.
• Cultural Insights: The museum provides insights into how bags have influenced and been influenced by societal changes, including gender roles and fashion trends.
• Rare Finds: The collection includes rare pieces, such as vintage handbags from renowned designers, offering a glimpse into high-fashion history.

Visitor Experience

While the museum is currently closed, the visitor experience was characterized by a blend of education and interaction. Guests were welcomed into elegantly decorated rooms, each showcasing different themes and periods in handbag history. The museum also offered high tea, providing a social atmosphere that complemented the cultural experience.

Educational Opportunities

The museum was not just a visual feast; it served as an educational hub. Workshops and guided tours were available, allowing visitors to delve deeper into the art of handbag design and the history surrounding these fashion items.

Events and Special Exhibitions

The museum frequently hosted special exhibitions featuring contemporary designers, particularly those from the Netherlands. These exhibitions provided a platform for emerging talent and highlighted the evolving nature of handbag design.

The Future of the Collection

As of now, the Ivo Collection is seeking a new permanent home after the museum’s closure in 2020. The founders, Hendrikje and Heinz Ivo, aim to continue sharing their beloved collection with the public. The legacy of the museum lives on, with plans to find a suitable venue that can accommodate the collection’s vast and varied pieces.

Technical Features of the Museum Collection

Feature	Description
Collection Size	Over 5,000 pieces
Historical Range	16th century to present
Material Diversity	Leather, fabric, metal, and synthetic materials
Notable Designers	Includes works from both historical and contemporary designers
Exhibition Type	Permanent and temporary exhibitions
Visitor Capacity	Variable based on exhibition setup

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Conclusion

The Museum of Bags and Purses in Amsterdam, with its rich history and extraordinary collection, has played a pivotal role in showcasing the evolution of fashion accessories. While currently closed, the museum remains a significant part of Amsterdam’s cultural fabric. Its collection not only highlights the beauty and craftsmanship of bags but also the stories they tell about society and fashion trends throughout history. The future of the Ivo Collection promises to continue this legacy, ensuring that the world of handbags remains celebrated and accessible.

FAQ

What is the Museum of Bags and Purses?
The Museum of Bags and Purses, also known as Tassenmuseum Hendrikje, is a museum in Amsterdam dedicated to the history and evolution of bags and purses, featuring a collection of over 5,000 items.

Is the museum currently open to visitors?
No, the museum has been closed since 2020 due to the pandemic, and the collection is currently seeking a new home.

How did the museum start?
The museum began as a private collection by Hendrikje Ivo, who started collecting handbags over 30 years ago and later opened the collection to the public in 1996.

Where was the museum located?
The museum was situated in a historic canal house on Herengracht in Amsterdam.

What types of bags can be found in the collection?
The collection includes handbags, evening bags, suitcases, and pouches from various historical periods, showcasing over 5,000 pieces.

Are there any educational programs offered at the museum?
Yes, the museum offered workshops and guided tours to educate visitors about handbag design and fashion history.

What was the admission fee for the museum?
Admission fees were typically €9.50 for adults, with discounted rates for children, seniors, and students.

Did the museum host special exhibitions?
Yes, the museum frequently hosted temporary exhibitions featuring works from contemporary designers, particularly those from the Netherlands.

What happened to the collection after the museum’s closure?
The collection, now referred to as the Ivo Collection, is in search of a new venue to continue sharing its pieces with the public.

What is the significance of the collection?
The collection is significant for its historical value and its ability to provide insights into the evolution of fashion and societal changes related to the use of bags and purses.