The picture below shows Reina van Bommel - van Dam on the couch which was used as a model for the sculpture. The couch was part of Maarten and Reina’s home furniture. At the time this picture was taken, Maarten had already passed away. Reina however continued to live in the bungalow next to the museum until her death in 2008.
In 1969, the couple donated their collection of modern art to the municipality of Venlo under the condition that a museum would be established, with a house for them next to it. Maarten explained their reasoning for wanting to live next to the museum as follows: 'I want to have the opportunity, so to speak, at night when I cannot sleep, to walk into the exhibition room on my slippers and take a beloved painting in my hands'. This wish came true and in 1971 Maarten and Reina moved to a bungalow next to the museum. Their home was connected to the exhibition space through a door, which allowed them access to the art collection at any time. During this time, Maarten and Reina continued to expand their own private collection, which was placed on long term loan to the museum in 1984.
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If you want to read more about Maarten and Reina, their art collection and moving to Venlo: Van particuliere verzameling in Amsterdam naar openbare collectie in Venlo