No building in the Netherlands has had such a defining relationship to the Dutch national identity as the Rijksmuseum. This book traces the history of this architectural landmark and artistic treasure house, from its opening in 1885 to the present day. Considered P.J.H. Cuypers' masterpiece, the Rijksmuseum had been added onto and reconfigured piecemeal over the decades. Its recently completed restoration has reestablished the original master plan while ensuring that its overhauled infrastructure takes full advantage of recent developments in museum science and modern technology--including lighting and advanced climate control, not to mention a state-of-the-art security system to protect its priceless contents. Containing hundreds of drawings and photographs, this handsome volume is the ultimate guide to the history, restoration and renewal of the Netherlands' most famous museum.