BINNENHOFBUITEN

‘With Kind Regards’ was created by Studio RENS and Mary Hessing (curator BinnenhofBuiten). With thanks to Hasna Bajraktarevic and Tamara Venema (Art Collection and archive of the House of Representatives). During the renovation of the Binnenhof, BinnenhofBuiten organizes cultural events and activities commissioned by the Municipality of The Hague/The Hague & Partners.

01 In May 1996, President Gonzalo Sánchez de Lozada proudly presented a lobed silver dish featuring the coat of arms of Bolivia to President of the House Wim Deetman. In 2018, Sánchez de Lozada became the first former head of state to be tried in the United States for human rights violations.

02 This elegant silver bowl was a gift from Greek President Prokopios Pavlopoulos during his visit to the States General in 2016. Khadija Arib, President of the House of Representatives, received the President together with the President of the Senate. Among other things, the refugee and migration crisis was discussed.

03 In 1985, relations between the European Union and China were significantly strengthened with the signing of the first trade and cooperation agreement. Politicians smoked cigars during such occasions. During an official visit to the Netherlands, Chinese Prime minister Zhao Ziyang presented this beautifully crafted cigar box to President of the House Dick Dolman.

04 "A Georgian dagger, also known as a 'khanjali', is a traditional weapon from the Caucasus region, primarily associated with Georgia. These daggers are renowned for their craftsmanship, historical significance, and the cultural importance they hold in the region.”  (presented 2006)

05 The nine-branched menorah is often used during Hanukkah, an important Jewish festival that lasts eight days. This silver menorah was crafted by Hazorfim, an Israeli brand known for its craftsmanship in candlesticks and other silver ornaments.

06 A silver object used to sprinkle rose water from Turkey is called a gülabdan. It is a traditional small vase or bottle used for sprinkling rose water, which is a common fragrance in Ottoman and Turkish culture. The date of the gift and the receiving Speaker of the House are unfortunately unknown.

07 This silver cup commemorates a milestone in the unification of Europe. The Trattati di Roma refer to two crucial treaties signed in 1957 by six European countries: Belgium, Germany, France, Italy, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands. This laid the foundation for what would evolve into the European Union. (Italy, presented 2007)

08 Pablo Neruda is one of the most influential poets of the 20th century. Born as Ricardo Eliécer Neftalí Reyes Basoalto in 1904, he adopted the name "Pablo Neruda" as a pseudonym. He is best known for his love poems, surrealist works, and political poetry. He won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1971 and passed away two years later. (Chili, presented 1995)

09 Gabriela Mistral was the first Latin American woman to receive the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1945. The Chilean poet, diplomat, and educator Mistral had a significant influence on education in Latin America and was involved in reforms and the promotion of schooling for poor children. (Chili, presented 1995)

10 The silver bowl featuring an image of the Sansad Bhavan, the parliament of India in New Delhi, reflects a combination of Indian and classical European architectural styles. Like the famous India Gate and the Rashtrapati Bhavan (the presidential palace), the parliament building was also designed in the early 1920s by the British architect Edwin Lutyens.

11 In Lithuania, the country of origin of these chalices, religion has always played an important role in its history and culture, particularly Catholicism. Silver chalices, often richly decorated, are not only religious objects but also works of art in their own right. (presented 2001)

12 Silver cardholder from Canada, presented to Frans Weisglas, who was President of the House of Representatives from 2002 to 2006.

13 These silver objects are the oldest in the gift archive and date back to the period when Frans Joseph van Thiel served as President of the House (1963-’72). A delegation from Indonesia presented a coffee table set: an ashtray with a match holder and a cup for cigars and cigarettes.

14 During a relatively short tenure as President of the House of Representatives between 2002 and 2005, VVD politician Anouchka van Miltenburg received this compressed steel beam. Further details are unknown, but the object bears a distant resemblance to the work of Eindhoven-based designer Tim Teven.

15 Cambodia has a rich tradition in silversmithing. Many designs on Cambodian silver objects, like this one, are inspired by Khmer art and architecture, particularly from the Angkor period. Traditional Khmer motifs such as nagas (mythical serpents) and lotus flowers are commonly featured. (presented 2001)

16 Jeltje van Nieuwenhoven was the first female President of the House of Representatives from 1998 to 2002. She received this silver platter from Prince rins Samdech Krom Preah Norodom Ranariddh of Cambodia in 2001. The use of traditional methods, such as hammering and engraving, is typical of Cambodian silverwork, making each piece unique.

17 As the President of the Dutch House of Representatives (1989-1996), Wim Deetman had the honor of welcoming many distinguished guests. In 1995, he greeted Prime Minister Phan Van Khai, who brought a remarkable gift: a silver platter adorned with a serene pagoda, symbolizing the rich culture of Vietnam.

18 A beautiful silver goblet from Iran, presented to Piet Bukman, who was President of the House from 1996 to 1998.

01 This Hongshou Zhou 'longevity bottle' is a wish for a long life, good health, and prosperity. The bottle is decorated using an ancient Chinese 'cloisonné' technique: figures are soldered onto the metal surface with thin wires (gold or bronze), after which the compartments are filled with enamel paste and fired.

02 In 2004, President of the House Frans Weisglas received this jug as a symbol of the good relationship with Russia. In Russian culture, the rooster represents vigilance, protection, and luck. Gzhel ceramics are known for their white base with red and blue decorations, and designs featuring animal shapes, including roosters, are quite common. (presented 2004)

03 This golden crown from the Silla Dynasty symbolizes the unification of the Three Kingdoms—Silla, Goguryeo and Baekje—which occurred between AD 500 and 513. The crown is a testament to the craftsmanship and cultural significance of the period, embodying the power and authority of the Silla rulers during the unification process from which Korea emerged.

04 This pure object, filled with flowers, was anonymously left at the Monument for the Roll of Honour of the Fallen. Inside, there was a small note, like a "message in a bottle." The keepsake was hand-painted, adorned with a dandelion and a cornflower, symbols of resilience and remembrance.

05 President of the House Jeltje van Nieuwenhoven received a beautifully handcrafted Eastern European textile in 1999, featuring the traditional colors of red, black, and white. This special gift symbolized the rich cultural heritage of the region and reflected the centuries-old art of weaving in Eastern Europe.

06 ‘Kenang Kenangan Kundjungan’ is an expression in Indonesian or Malay, which can be translated as 'memories of a visit' or 'souvenirs of a visit.’(presented 1972)

07 "Medals commemorating the visit of Valer Dorneanu, President of the Romanian Chamber of Deputies, to the Dutch House of Representatives.” (presented 2000/2005)

08 Ambon is known for its rich history, serving as a key location during the spice trade era, as well as for the island's diverse culture and natural beauty. "Bersatu Manggurebe Maju" is an Indonesian motto reflecting local cultural values, which can be translated as "United, Moving Forward Together.” (presented ‘70)

09 Hand-knotted rug of the Assemblée nationale Lomé, Togo. The Assemblée nationale is the national parliament of the country, located in Lomé, the capital of Togo. This body plays an important role in the legislative process of the nation. (presented 1988)

10 Delicate inlay work of mother-of-pearl is characteristic of Korean lacquerware. The decorations, featuring natural motifs of flowers, birds, or dragons, symbolize happiness, prosperity, and protection. The butterfly symbolizes long life, beauty, and elegance. (presented 2015)

11 Finnish President Mauno Koivisto was known as a pragmatist, much like our then Prime Minister Ruud Lubbers. They met in 1992. After the fall of the Soviet Union, Finland turned its focus towards the EU. Koivisto took this silver dish with him, which is enameled red on the inside—simple, yet sublime. (presented 1994)

12 During his visit to the Netherlands, General Aydoğan Babaoğlu presented a commemorative medal from the renowned 'Harp Akademileri,' the Turkish Military Academies for the army, navy, and air force. (presented 2006)

13 In Thailand, dragon boat racing is not only a competitive event but also a way to preserve and celebrate traditional craftsmanship, cultural heritage, and community spirit. (presented 1987)

14 This statue (a replica of the original in the Trowulan Majapahit Museum) is a tribute to Gajah Mada (± 1364) according to ancient Javanese manuscripts and myths, a legendary military leader who brought the kingdom of Majapahit to the heights of its glory. (Indonesia)

15 This glas (part of a set) was a gift from Japanese Ambassador Minoru Shibuya in 2007. The glassware combines clear glass with artistically applied colored glass, giving it a refined appearance. The unique cutting technique, which originated in the Edo period, gives this glassware its iconic name: Edokiriko.

16 A commemorative medal during the visit of Maraden Saur Halomoan Panggabean (1922 – 2000), a high-ranking Indonesian general who visited our country at the peak of his military career in 1973 when he served as both Minister of Defense and Security and Commander of the Indonesian National Armed Forces. (presented 1974)

17 The Kuwait National Assembly Building reflects the nation's political culture and serves as the home of its popularly elected legislature. Designed in 1972 by Danish architect Jørn Utzon, renowned for his iconic design of the Sydney Opera House, the building stands as a symbol of Kuwait's democratic system. (presented 2005)

18 Bratislava Národná rada Slovenskej is a decorative medal of the Parliament building of Slovenia in Bratislava.

19 This large gold-colored medal, presented by the People's Republic of China, features the renowned Great Wall of China, which is considered one of the wonders of the world. Stretching 21,196 km, it is the longest wall in the world, composed of multiple individual walls built by successive dynasties from 700 AD onwards to protect the empire.

20 In 2022, President of the House Vera Bergkamp received this beautiful miniature screen, made of wood and enamel. The screen features colorful, painted faces from the famous Chinese Peking opera, an art form rich in tradition and expression. A special gift with a story full of culture and history.

01 India has never been a producer of gold, but they do have a great love for the precious metal. PvdA politician Gerdi Verbeet was Speaker of the House of Representatives from 2006 to 2012. During that time, she received this gilded bowl.

02 The dhow is an iconic Arabian sailing ship, known for its elegant masts and deep cargo holds that can carry large amounts of goods. This traditional vessel is a symbol of the rich Arabian maritime history and is featured in the coat of arms of Kuwait.

03 Each street in the Old Quarter in Hanoi, capital of Vietnam was traditionally dedicated to a specific trade or craft, such as silk, silver, or bamboo, which continues to influence the names of the streets today. It's a lively hub where history, culture, and modern life blend seamlessly. (presented 2007)

04 In Greek mythology, the harp symbolizes music, poetry, and harmony, often associated with gods and heroes who embody art and beauty. The most famous was Orpheus, a legendary musician who enchanted both people and animals with his magical melodies and could even influence nature. (presented somewhere between 1967—72)

05 La Constitución de España, the current Spanish Constitution, dates back to December 6, 1978. This historic document, drafted after the death of dictator Francisco Franco in 1975, marks the significant transition of Spain into a democratic society. It symbolizes a new era of freedom and justice for the country.

06 This chalice, inlaid with blue stones, symbolizes the uniqueness of Armenia, the first country to adopt Christianity as its state religion in the year 301 AD. Since then, the Apostolic Church has been a central pillar of Armenian culture and identity. (presented 2005)

07 The magnificent Hagia Sophia basilica ("holy wisdom") in Istanbul is one of the crown jewels of Byzantine architecture. Its dome has had a significant influence on the design of various art and everyday objects, especially in Byzantine and later Ottoman art and architecture. This gold-colored goblet is clearly inspired by it as well. (Turkey)

08 A glass cylindrical vase with a gold base and a red ornament resembling a petal or decorative droplet. The origin and date of this vase are unknown, but the combination of gold and red suggests a possible artistic or ceremonial function.

09 The National Slavery Monument stands in Oosterpark, Amsterdam. The sculpture by artist Erwin de Vries is depicted here on a plaque shaped like a banknote. It commemorates the 150th anniversary of the abolition of slavery in Suriname in 1863.

10 A table clock with columns is often called a portico clock. These clocks have an elegant, architectural design, with the columns framing the clock like a miniature temple or portico. This beautiful piece, full of historical charm, was presented on behalf  the Latvian President to President of the House Frans Weisglas. (presented 2005)

11 This beautiful gold-colored watch was gifted by the Russian Federation in 2003. Prominently featured is the iconic double-headed eagle, an ancient symbol deeply rooted in Russia’s history. The two heads look in opposite directions, symbolizing the connection between Asia and Europe. (presented 2003)

12 Gift from the Indonesian parliament, the Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat (DPR), or the House of Representatives, highlights the crucial role this lower house plays in Indonesia's political system. The DPR is the beating heart of the legislative branch and plays a pivotal role in shaping the country's future.

13 This 'Boa An' vase was a gift from Vietnam to Vera Bergkamp, President of the House from 2021 to 2023. In addition to hand-painted traditional Chinese motifs, such as flowers, dragons, birds, and other symbols wishing for luck and prosperity, the parliament building in Hanoi is prominently depicted.

14  The goddess of the hunt, often identified as Artemis in Greek mythology (and Diana in Roman mythology), is typically depicted as a young, athletic woman dressed in a short tunic (chiton), accompanied by a hunting dog. This panel was a gift from the Soviet Union in 1978.

15 Mr. D.A.S. Lucia was Chairman of the Parliament of the Netherlands Antilles from 2001 to 2005. He gifted this pen holder with a globe to his colleague Frans Weisglas upon his departure as Speaker of the Dutch House of Representatives in 2006.