In the seventeenth century, the Asian elephant Hansken travelled around European markets and fairs. She stopped in the big cities, but also in small villages like Mol, Belgium. You had to pay to see her tricks. This exotic animal caused great amazement among the public and was immortalized by artists such as Rembrandt van Rijn, who captured her in drawings and an etching.
Rembrandt van Rijn (1606-1669), Adam and Eve, 1638, Leiden University Library
Two centuries later, the painter Jakob Smits (1855-1928) made Mol his home. He painted a huge oeuvre in which his passion for his idol Rembrandt is palpable. A little-known series of elephants bears witness to his inventiveness.
Jakob Smits (1855-1928), The three wise men on their way to Bethlehem, 1923, Belfius Art Collection
The Jakob Smitsmuseum will bring these special stories together in a unique exhibition. In addition to loans from museums in Belgium and abroad, the museum will also draw from its own extensive collection and from private collections.
Works will be on display that have never before been seen by the general public. Visitors will also be able to see a replica of Hansken’s skull. In short, this exhibition is a coming together of art, history and nature.
Curator: Piet Deceuninck
Guest curator: Michiel Roscam Abbing