FROM 19 July – 9 November 2025 | A forgotten figure in Rotterdam’s artistic history will be spotlighted this summer. The Chabot Museum is preparing a solo exhibition honouring the work and legacy of sculptor Leendert Bolle.
Chabot Museum to exhibit forgotten sculptor Leendert Bolle
From 19 July to 9 November 2025, the Chabot Museum will present an exhibition dedicated to Rotterdam-born sculptor Leendert Bolle (1879–1942). Once regarded as an important figure in Dutch sculpture during the 1950s, Bolle’s experimental and modern approach to material and form has largely faded from public view. This upcoming exhibition seeks to reintroduce his body of work and its significance, particularly in the context of Rotterdam’s public art landscape.
Re-evaluating Bolle's artistic contributions
The exhibition will feature a range of Bolle’s works, including sculptures, sketches, plaster models, and medallions. Notably, it will explore his public contributions to the city of Rotterdam, such as the stylised animal figures atop columns at the original entrance to Diergaarde Blijdorp (Rotterdam Zoo), and the keystones for the bridge on Statensingel.
Curated with works on loan from institutions including Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen, Museum Rotterdam, the Maritime Museum, Stedelijk Museum Schiedam, and the Rotterdam City Archives, the exhibition offers a comprehensive view of Bolle’s artistic legacy.
A contemporary of Chabot
Art historian Ype Koopmans, former director of Museum MORE and a specialist in interwar Dutch art, has written a monograph to accompany the exhibition. Koopmans notes the innovative nature of Bolle’s methods and the influence of his friendship with Henk Chabot. Art critic Abraham Hammacher once described Bolle as an “exceptionally focused artist,” singling out his balustrade for the G.J. de Jongh monument in the garden of Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen as a prime example of interwar sculpture.
Exhibition details
Leendert Bolle (1879–1942) – Beeldhouwer in Rotterdam
Dates: 19 July – 9 November 2025
Location: Chabot Museum, Museumpark, Rotterdam
A richly illustrated monograph by Koopmans, published by Stichting Clio Rotterdam, will be available during the exhibition.
Directions to Chabot Museum
The Chabot Museum is located in the Museumpark, near several major cultural institutions including the Kunsthal and Museum Boijmans Van Beuningen. The area is well-connected by public transport, with tram and metro stations within walking distance. Drivers will find paid parking in the nearby Museumpark garage.
