Project Description

Christ Preaching exhibits Rembrandt’s willingness to experiment with different printmaking techniques later in his artistic career. He moved away from his earlier method of exclusively using a copper etching technique and has introduced engraving and drypoint intaglio methods. The strong lines of etching can be augmented with the precision of engraving and fluidity of drypoint to create a full-bodied print. Rembrandt’s later biblical etchings also usually exhibit more personal scenes. He lost interest in the drama of major scriptural events and turned to portraying intimate stories like this. Here, Christ is preaching to a small band of followers in a small room. He stands upon a raised platform with his hands outstretched. A halo of light above his head cuts through the darkness of his surroundings and illuminates the attentive faces of his devotees.

-Susan Bonta, Class of 2018

Object Details

Rembrandt Van Rijn (Dutch, 1606-1669)
1652
180.E.179
8 ⅛” x 6 ⅛”
Etching
Gift of Emily Poole, 1965