Teylersmuseum in Haarlem

News of: Wednesday, July 25 2007,

Most expensive book in print exhibited in Teylers Museum Haarlem

The most expensive book in print in the world will be on display in the Teylers Museum in Haarlem.

The book is called the 'Birds of America', which was auctioned at Christie's in 2000 for USD 8.8 million, and is by many regarded as the most beautiful bird book ever published.

The work consists of hand-colored, life-size prints made from engraved plates measuring around 39 by 26 inches. It was made by John James Audubon (1785-1851), a Frenchman who went to the United States when he was 20.
The book is very large, and from 3 November 2007 to January 2008 the 5 volumes will be on display in the Museum. The book contains 435 bird paintings, which are all created in their true sizes.

The Teylers Museum is the oldest museum in the Netherlands. It displays an eclectic collection of fossils (among which the first ever discovered, if not recognised, of Archaeopteryx), minerals, scientific instruments, medals, coins, and paintings. It is most famous for its extensive collection of old master's prints and drawings, including several works by Michelangelo and Rembrandt.

The museum is in Haarlem (15 minutes by train from Amsterdam), at the address Spaarne 16 (location), a 10 minutes' walk from the train station.
Opening hours:
Tuesday till Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sundays and public holidays 12 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Closed on Mondays, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

Teylersmuseum in Haarlem

Teylersmuseum in Haarlem