As a history student at the University of Amsterdam (UvA), I became fascinated by multiculturalism and wrote my thesis on the fall of the Ottoman Empire and the emergence of the Turkish Republic. Later, while preparing an inventory of a private collection, its owner commissioned me to write a book about it. That request marked the start of my career writing both commissioned works and books for the general public.

My writing is driven by a passion for exploring the layered histories of cultures and societies, with a focus on shedding light on known and lesser-known stories and perspectives. I strive to make historical, cultural, and artistic narratives accessible and engaging for a broad audience, all while maintaining scholarly rigour. Through my books, I aim to foster understanding and dialogue across borders and backgrounds—reflecting my lifelong commitment to bridging divides through storytelling.

a selection of projects

2021 - Present: research and author - The Counts Van Rechteren Limpurg.

Historical work covering eight centuries of a major European aristocratic family. In development.

2022-2025: research and author - The Wehry Family. Ties and Trade Winds.

A family saga between Europe, the Dutch East Indies and the history of international trade.

2017: co-author - De wereld van Pyke Koch.

Biography of the Dutch painter Pyke Koch (1901–1991), a leading figure in Dutch magical realism.

2016: Author - The Lexicon of Classic Luggage.

A book on the history of luxury luggage, inspired by the Menko ten Cate collection (Amsterdam).

2017-2019: historical advisor, Fondation Stichting Huys ten Donck (Rotterdam)

Developing a heritage action plan for the preservation of an 18th-century historical monument.

1993-2008: Historical Collaborations & Cultural Projects
  • Artistic Project Manager – Creation of the corporate collection, Baker & McKenzie – (Amsterdam)
  • Documentary Research for the BBC – Antiques Roadshow
  • Co-organisation of the conference "The Future of Turkish Islam"
  • Various contributions to the Cannes and Rotterdam film festivals.