- First-ever exhibition co-organised by the Hong Kong Palace Museum and Rijksmuseum will bring about 100 17th-century Dutch masterpieces to Hong Kong in 2027, featuring The Love Letter by Johannes Vermeer and the Greater Bay Area’s largest-ever presentation of works by Rembrandt van RijnFirst-ever exhibition co-organised by the Hong Kong Palace Museum and Rijksmuseum will bring about 100 17th-century Dutch masterpieces to Hong Kong in 2027, featuring The Love Letter by Johannes Vermeer and the Greater Bay Area’s largest-ever presentation of works by Rembrandt van Rijn.
- Marking the 20th partnership forged between the Hong Kong Palace Museum and international cultural institutions, the memorandum of understanding signed with Rijksmuseum reaffirms the Museum’s commitment to strengthening Hong Kong’s role as an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange.
The Hong Kong Palace Museum (HKPM or the Museum) has expanded its global network by forging a landmark partnership with the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. Signed at the Rijksmuseum on 21 October 2026 by Dr Louis Ng, Museum Director of the HKPM, and Taco Dibbits, Director of the Rijksmuseum, this memorandum of understanding underscores the Museum’s growing importance as a global connector and a dynamic platform for cross-civilisation dialogue.
A 2027 blockbuster: 17th-century Dutch masterpieces showcasing the convergence of East and West
A major highlight of the collaboration between the HKPM and the Rijksmuseum is the inaugural blockbuster exhibition to be co-organised by the two institutions in 2027, showcasing an unprecedented array of 17th-century Dutch masterpieces by the most influential artists of their time including Johannes Vermeer, whose existing paintings total only about 35. One of his most precious works, The Love Letter, will be shown in Hong Kong and the region for the first time. Alongside Vermeer is the largest number of works by Rembrandt van Rijn ever presented in the Greater Bay Area, as well as historical artefacts that were the quintessence of global trade and unparalleled splendour.
Drawn from the Rijksmuseum’s world-renowned holdings, the exhibition features about 100 paintings, ship models, ceramics, metalwork, textiles, prints, and drawings. Enhanced by multimedia installations, the exhibition illustrates the vibrant artistic, trade, and diplomatic exchanges between the Dutch Republic and China. Beyond this exhibition, the two museums will deepen their long-term collaboration through joint research and educational initiatives.
Dr Louis Ng, Museum Director of the Hong Kong Palace Museum, said, “Rooted in an international city where world cultures meet, the Hong Kong Palace Museum is dedicated to championing Chinese art and culture while fostering dialogue among world civilisations through diverse exhibitions, academic research, and educational initiatives. Since our opening in 2022, we have forged strategic partnerships with 20 world-class institutions globally, spanning the Chinese mainland, other Asian nations, Europe, and beyond. By bringing the world’s greatest artistic treasures into conversation with the finest Chinese heritage, we continue to reinforce Hong Kong’s role as an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange.”
Taco Dibbits, Director of the Rijksmuseum, said, “We are delighted by this cultural exchange between the Hong Kong Palace Museum and the Rijksmuseum. It is wonderful that the Hong Kong Palace Museum will showcase great Dutch art, allowing the public in Hong Kong to familiarise themselves with Dutch history.”
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About the Hong Kong Palace Museum
Through innovative curatorial approaches, the Hong Kong Palace Museum presents priceless treasures from the Palace Museum along with the finest collections from other world-renowned institutions. The Museum is also in the process of building its own world-class collection. Opened in 2022, the Museum is a leading institution for the study and appreciation of Chinese art and culture and the promotion of dialogue among world civilisations. The Museum is a collaborative project between the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority and the Palace Museum. The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust made a donation of HK$3.5 billion for its establishment, as well as some of the annual exhibitions and education programmes in 2023–2032.
Through research, exhibitions, publications, and educational and professional exchange programmes, the Museum builds international partnerships and positions Hong Kong as a global hub for art and culture. A resource that belongs to the local community, the Museum inspires community engagement, fosters dialogue, and promotes creativity and interdisciplinary collaboration.
About the West Kowloon Cultural District (WestK)
WestK is one of the largest and most ambitious cultural hubs in the world and Hong Kong’s new cultural tourism landmark, spanning 40 hectares alongside Victoria Harbour. WestK comprises a mix of landmark arts and cultural facilities, including world-class museums M+ and the Hong Kong Palace Museum, intricately designed performing arts venues the Xiqu Centre and Freespace, the 11-hectare Art Park with a waterfront promenade, and the upcoming WestK Performing Arts Centre.
Hosting over 1,000 exhibitions, performances, programmes, and events each year, WestK provides a vital platform for both emerging and established artists. WestK welcomes more than 10 million visitors each year, evolving as the international cultural brand of Hong Kong and strengthening the city’s strategic role as an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange.
https://www.westk.hk/
