Rembrandt's Themes

Rembrandt van Rjin (16061669) was among the few celebrated old masters who enjoyed considerable freedom in his choice of subject matter. Living and working in the Protestant Netherlands, he painted largely for private patrons and the open market, selecting his own subjects in the hope of finding buyers. Although he depicted biblical, historical, and mythological themes in emulation of the great artists of the past, his subjects often focus on fundamental human experiences and emotions that transcend their literary sources. Even when working within the confines of specific commissions, Rembrandt managed to imbue his paintings with deeper, personal meanings. These works reveal the artists profound humanity and at times reflect the circumstances of his life. This illuminating study explores some of the central themes of Rembrandts paintings, drawings, and etchings: grand love, sin, repentance and forgiveness, adultery, fatherhood, and the conflict between the generations as well as mundane and idiosyncratic. It demonstrates how Rembrandts subjects can offer new revelations about this complex artist.