Amsterdam, The Netherlands – Today, Rembrandt van Rijn’s Night Watch is being transported to its old place in the Rijksmuseum’s Night Watch hall. Royal Philips Electronics (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHIA) developed the Intelligent Protective Cover especially for the move of one of the world’s most famous paintings. The cover ensures that the painting remains fully protected against the elements by guaranteeing the right temperature and atmospheric humidity. The painting was last moved in 2003 in the same Philips cover. This delicate operation needs to be carried out with the utmost care and precision.

Optimal Protection
Designed especially for the Night Watch, the Intelligent Protective Cover is constructed from a steel frame weighing around 300 kilos, an insulation layer of special foam and a protective blanket. The cover is equipped with sensors that measure temperature, atmospheric humidity and shock. That protection is crucial, as The Night Watch has to be taken outside to reach the permanent hall, via the Museum square. “The special protective layer means the painting remains at virtually the same temperature and there is no risk of paint damage,” says Wim Hoeben, Head of preventive Conservation at the Rijksmuseum.