The Compass on the forecourt
A unique, must-see landmark right outside the Cuypershuis is the “Compass.” It’s a popular spot for taking photos and meeting up. The Compass was designed by Maurice Mentjens. The steel sculpture is nine meters tall and coated in a bright red color. The decision to use the shape of a compass as a landmark for the Cuypershuis did not come out of nowhere. In the Middle Ages, the compass was already the quintessential symbol of the architect. Pierre Cuypers drew inspiration from the Middle Ages in his approach to architecture and art. As an architect and designer, he was responsible for the entire building, both the exterior and the interior. He regularly used a compass when creating his design drawings.
A compass is a measuring instrument used to set a small distance and transfer it to another point. It is a handy tool for drawing perfect circles. Compasses are also used by sculptors to transfer models for sculptures onto stone or wood. For this purpose, they often use a straightedge compass or a curved compass.
The Cuypershuis collection includes a number of compasses, which are also on display in the permanent exhibition. In the “Rijksmuseum: In the Drawing Studio” room, for example, you’ll find a compass and a unique design drawing. You can also try measuring and drawing with a compass yourself there.
