design
Project:
Pyramids of MakkumYear:
2008Designers:
Hella Jongerius, Studio Makkink & Bey, Studio Job and Alexander van SlobbeMaterial:
FaienceBackground:
The project was inspired by the complex restoration of an authentic 17th century flower pyramid for the Amsterdam Rijksmuseum. An exact replica of this show-piece was the starting point for a new interpretation by Dutch designers, with whose work Royal Tichelaar is closely associated. Hella Jongerius, Jurgen Bey, Studio Job and Alexander van Slobbe gave their interpretation of the flower pyramid from a contemporary perspective.
Royal Tichelaar Makkum's wish to employ- and demonstrate- the vast knowledge accumulated in such restorations, gave the incentive to commissioning the artists.
The Enkhuizen Zuiderzeemuseum 's order for the first set even before the artists had begun work, greatly helped to get the project off the ground.
The result is a most impressive display of five top pieces of art: the traditional replica and the four contemporary interpretations, all made in original faience. The series has been produced in a limited edition of seven and is already now considered to belong to tomorrow's heritage.