Domain Partner: Lely

The Mauritshuis is partnering with the agricultural family company Lely from Maassluis for a three-year period. The reason for the collaboration is the restoration of the world-famous painting De stier (The bull) from 1647 by Paulus Potter.

Restoration of 'The bull'

What is remarkable about the painting is the fact that Paulus Potter depicted something as 'ordinary' and quintessentially Dutch as a bull on a large scale (235.5 x 339 cm). The restoration of the painting will utilize the latest techniques and innovations. Surrounding the restoration of the painting and the subsequent exhibition, the Mauritshuis and Lely are developing educational projects focusing on technology and innovation, specifically for young people. By sharing stories behind the paintings and conducting additional research, societal themes such as sustainability become more comprehensible for younger generations.

Children's podcast The Mysteries of the Mauritshuis: The Bull

The famous bull steps out of his painting! In the children's podcast The Mysteries of the Mauritshuis: The Bull he takes his friends Frog and Maurits Mouse on a journey through time, recounting all the adventures he's had through the centuries. They travel from Paulus Potter's studio to the Louvre, an auction house, and even a palace! An exciting and cheerful story perfect for the backseat, on the train or plane, or on a lazy day at home.

The Dutch-spoken, six-part podcast series, specifically for children aged 8 to 11, is available on all major apps. The Mysteries of the Mauritshuis: The Bull was created in the summer of 2025 in collaboration with Lely.

Listen to the podcast

Martine Gosselink, General Director of the Mauritshuis

"The art in the Mauritshuis is an important part of our national heritage, just as vulnerable and worthy of protection as the nature in our country. Just as the family business Lely focuses on sustainable solutions for dairy farming with consideration for the cows, farmers, and the planet, one of the core activities of the Mauritshuis is the restoration and preservation of centuries-old paintings. Now, with the help of Lely, our beloved painting The bull by Potter will also be restored, fulfilling a long-held desire. It is a wonderful gift in honor of their 75th anniversary."

About Lely

Lely is an international agricultural family business that supports dairy farmers with innovative and sustainable solutions to enhance efficient operations. The company's core values revolve around responsible treatment of humans, animals, and the environment. Lely was founded in 1948 by brothers Cornelis and Arij van der Lely in Maassluis. Over the years, the company has acquired customers in over 45 countries worldwide. Lely is at the forefront of innovation in designing and manufacturing automated systems for dairy farmers, aiming to enable them to excel in sustainable milk production and contribute to feeding the world.

André van Troost, CEO Lely

"Just as the Mauritshuis preserves The bull for future generations, we aim to assist dairy farmers worldwide in passing down their businesses to the next generation. We have been doing so for 75 years. For centuries, farmers and their livestock have played a crucial role in food production. This will continue to be the case in the future, as the world's population continues to grow and more mouths need to be fed. We are proud to become a partner of the Mauritshuis and contribute to the restoration of a masterpiece by a renowned Dutch painter. We should take pride in our Dutch heritage, whether it be in the form of magnificent art or exceptional Dutch family businesses like Lely."

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