Former director of the RKD – Netherlands Institute for Art History (RKD), Chris Stolwijk, has passed away unexpectedly at his home last Thursday, 16 October, at the age of 59, the RKD announced today.

After twelve and a half years leading the RKD, Stolwijk departed this past April to pursue a different career path. He was scheduled for nomination as an alderman in the Dutch municipality of Oudewater next week, on 27 October.

Our deepest condolences go out to his two children, partner, and the rest of his family, friends and former colleagues at the RKD.