Delft Blue exhibition at Soestdijk Palace
In the autumn of 2023, Soestdijk Palace, together with Nicole Uniquole, will organize a major exhibition 'The Women of Soestdijk'. The prestigious status of Soestdijk Palace is partly due to the women who loved to stay here during the summer months over the past centuries. Including Mary Stuart, the inspiration behind the iconic piece Proud Mary.
Mary Stuart and Soestdijk Palace
Mary Stuart, wife of William III of Orange-Nassau, was the second resident of Soestdijk Palace. After moving in, she had Soestdijk House extended on both sides. Mary Stuart was also a great admirer and collector of Delft Blue pottery. During the exhibition 'The Women of Soestdijk', various pieces from Royal Delft will be on display in the palace.
Mary Stuart, the wife of William III of Orange-Nassau, entered Soestdijk Palace as its second resident. Her stay here marked a period of significant changes and additions to the palace. Under her rule, new wings were added to both sides of the estate, considerably expanding and embellishing the palace. Mary Stuart also had a love for art. One of her passions was collecting Delft Blue pottery, an art form that flourished in the Netherlands at that time. Her collection of beautifully painted Delft Blue pottery grew into an impressive collection.
During the exhibition 'The Women of Soestdijk', visitors can admire several pieces from Royal Delft, which are exhibited in the palace.
Proud Mary
Proud Mary is named after Mary Stuart. This stylish figurine originated from the desire to give Royal Delft's iconic Delft Blue a contemporary look. The design consists of four interchangeable elements: the skirt, the bodice, the collar, and the head. The design is by Dutch Designers Koens & Middelkoop, the decoration was designed by the designers and master painters of Royal Delft.
