Isn’t it interesting that the Lutrapassage is named after a renowned silversmith? Let me tell you about Johannes Lutma and how this passageway connects to his legacy.
The Lutrapassage is more than just a bridge. It is a tribute to a master craftsman of the Dutch Golden Age. Johannes Lutma, or Janus Lutma the elder, was born in Emden around 1584. He became a very well-known Dutch silversmith.
Lutma’s journey began as a pupil of Paulus van Vianen. Van Vianen was famous for his auricular style in silver. This style featured smooth ear-like forms. Lutma spent time in Paris around 1615. He then settled in Amsterdam in 1621. He got engaged to Mayken Roelants in 1623 and later to Saera de Bie in 1638.
Johannes Lutma was a friend of Rembrandt. Rembrandt etched a portrait of him. Jacob Adriaensz Backer also painted Lutma’s portrait. Lutma is best known for his choir-panel in the New Church of Amsterdam. His sons, Jacob and Johannes Lutma the Younger, published his designs in four series of prints. Jan Lutma the Younger developed a unique stipple engraving technique. He used a punch and hammer to make dots on the plate.
The Rijksmuseum of Amsterdam has several of Johannes Lutma’s works. These include two silver salt containers partially gilded and a silver drinking bowl. There is also a silver pitcher and bowl with sea-motives.
So, as you walk through the Lutrapassage, remember Johannes Lutma. He was a celebrated silversmith. He left a lasting mark on Dutch art. The Lutrapassage stands as a reminder of his skill and artistry. It also connects the neighborhood De Pijp, where a street is named after him. It reminds us of the rich artistic heritage of Amsterdam and its famous figures. It enriches our experience of this beautiful city.