We are delighted to share this news: the full amount needed to restore the bronze bust of our founder, Théophile de Bock, has been raised. Thanks to all the contributions—large and small, but all equally important—the statue by Toon Dupuis will be restored to its former glory.
The restoration is being carried out by Tonny Beentjes, head of the Metal Conservation Program at the University of Amsterdam. Among other works, he previously restored Auguste Rodin’s *The Thinker*. A large portion of the costs was covered by the Representation of Flanders in the Netherlands. Thanks to contributions from a large number of members and donors, the remaining amount has also been raised.
The fact that this was achieved in the year the Haagse Kunstkring celebrates its 135th anniversary gives it extra significance. The board thanks everyone who made this possible.
Save the date: Friday, October 23, 2026, 5:00 p.m., Denneweg 64
The restored statue will be unveiled during the special anniversary edition of Sociëteit De Bock.
Nic Van der Marliere, General Representative of Flanders in the Netherlands, unveils the statue. Ton van Kalmthout, chair of the Department of Literature, Theater, and Film, speaks about F.W.J.G. Snijder van Wissenkerke, who donated the statue to the association. Restorer Tonny Beentjes takes us through the restoration process.
Our Flemish guests will bring Belgian beer, which will be served that evening.
The unveiling coincides with OYO Week, during which recent graduates of the Royal Academy of Fine Arts take over the Kunstkring’s exhibition spaces.
Admission is free for members, volunteers, donors, and anyone interested.
We’d love to celebrate this moment with all of you!