The Dutch master Rembrandt van Rijn (1606-1669) was one of the greatest draftsman of all time. Even small and quick sketches reveal his incomparable skill in capturing compositions, figures, groups, human gestures, facial expressions and landscapes with just a few strokes. Although some of Rembrandt's drawings served as preparatory studies for paintings and etchings, most are conceptual works in which he investigated motifs of movement and expression, recording ideas for his own works and those produced by pupils in his studio. Encompassing works from Rembrandt's entire career, this compact and exquisitely produced monograph presents the full spectrum of the genres and materials used in the drawings. In addition, recent scholarship has revealed that many drawings once attributed to Rembrandt were in fact done by his pupils. Of the 126 drawings in the important Berlin collection from which this volume draws its illustrations, only 55 are still considered original works by the master. Each of these is presented here within a scholarly text by Holm Bevers. As well, a selection of 25 drawings by Rembrandt's pupils is examined in light of the most recent research.
Rembrandt van Rijn Book order (chronological)
Rembrandt van Rijn was a master of the Dutch Golden Age whose art explored the depths of the human experience. Through his portraits and self-portraits, renowned for their unflinching sincerity and lack of vanity, he captured the essence of his contemporaries and himself. His masterful depictions of biblical scenes were informed by a profound knowledge of classical iconography, textual accuracy, and keen observation of life, earning him a reputation as "one of the great prophets of civilization." His legacy lies in his ability to meld technical brilliance with profound empathetic insight into the human condition.
