Our giant Goliath began his career in the "Old Maze" on Prinsengracht, off Looiersgracht. Between 1625 and 1862 there was a pleasure garden full of statues of Biblical and mythological figures, fountains, tricksters and a labyrinth. Thanks to an ingenious mechanism, an interplay of loose eyeballs, hooks, rods, nails and sturdy cords, Goliath can move his head and roll his eyes. While an explicator presents biblical stories to visitors to the garden, a concealed helper pulls the strings. The images, much to the amusement of the visitors, come to life. Over time, the performance no longer runs so smoothly. According to an 1845 visitor, Goliath turns his head only with difficulty "with a rattling sound.

Goliath could use a boost. From then on, he resides in the Amsterdam Historical Museum, then still located in the Waag. In 1975 he was transferred to the new museum in the Kalverstraat, where he became supervisor of the restaurant named after him and David. There he receives countless visitors and the greatest possible respect. There isn't an Amsterdammer who didn't look up to him as a child. Until the museum and restaurant enter the twenty-first century and are in need of restyling. In two, three steps he lands in his new spot, the Schuttersgalerij, our current Amsterdam Gallery.

Goliath is now not only all eyes but also all ears! He sees and hears not only many Amsterdammers but also millions of tourists from all over the world. And then the day will come when he will leave us. For Royalty, our giant bows his old wise head. He makes way for an exhibition on the Golden Coach that will take up our entire Gallery. Then the museum will be closed for a major renovation. In 2027, we will open our doors again. Goliath may rest and refuel and process his impressions in our depot in Amsterdam-Noord, where he will be lovingly cared for. Then he too will rise again in full glory.