35 Rembrandt van Rijn Paintings

35 Rembrandt van Rijn Paintings

By / May 7, 2024
Rembrandt van Rijn

Rembrandt van Rijn was a Dutch painter and one of the greatest artists in European history. Born in Leiden in 1606, Rembrandt gained fame for his skillful use of light and shadow in his paintings, as well as his ability to capture the emotions and personalities of his subjects. He was a prolific artist, creating over 300 paintings, 300 etchings, and 2,000 drawings throughout his career. Rembrandt's work often depicted biblical scenes, portraits, and everyday life in 17th century Amsterdam. Despite facing financial struggles later in life, Rembrandt's legacy has endured, with his works continuing to be celebrated and studied by art enthusiasts around the world.

1. Bathsheba at Her Bath

Bathsheba at Her Bath

"Bathsheba at Her Bath," painted by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1654, is an evocative oil-on-canvas masterpiece currently housed in the Musée du Louvre, Paris. The artwork, measuring 142 x 142 cm, depicts Bathsheba in a moment of introspection as she is attended by a maidservant. The painting is renowned for its masterful use of light and shadow, capturing the delicate nuances of the human form and the profound emotional depth of the subject.

2. Jan Six

Jan Six
  • Artwork Name: Jan Six
  • Year: 1654
  • Medium: Oil on Canvas
  • Dimensions: 112 x 102 cm

The artwork, titled "Jan Six," was masterfully crafted by the renowned artist Rembrandt van Rijn in the year 1654. Executed with oil on canvas, this piece measures 112 by 102 centimeters. The composition exudes a sense of dignified elegance, depicting a man garbed in a richly detailed, elaborate attire. The figure is adorned with a voluminous hat, intricate lace cuffs, and an opulent red cloak draped over his shoulder, reflecting the luxurious fashion of the period. The artist's adept use of chiaroscuro highlights the textures and intricate details, evoking a lifelike presence and capturing the subtle expressions and demeanor of the subject. This exemplary portrait showcases Rembrandt's unparalleled ability to render human character and emotion through masterful brushwork and nuanced lighting.

3. Hendrickje Bathing in a River

Hendrickje Bathing in a River

The artwork, entitled "Hendrickje Bathing in a River," is an exquisite oil on panel piece executed by the renowned artist Rembrandt van Rijn in the year 1654. This masterpiece measures 61.8 by 47 centimeters and is presently housed in the National Gallery, London. The artwork depicts a young woman, presumably Hendrickje, standing in shallow water, partially lifting her dress as she gazes downward with a serene and contemplative expression. The composition is characterized by Rembrandt's masterful use of light and shadow, creating a dramatic and intimate atmosphere that exemplifies his skill in capturing human emotion and naturalistic detail.

4. Self-portrait

Self-portrait
  • Artwork Name: Self-portrait
  • Year: 1640
  • Medium: Oil On Canvas
  • Dimensions: 91 x 75 cm

5. The Mennonite Minister Cornelis Claesz. Anslo in Conversation with his Wife, Aaltje

The Mennonite Minister Cornelis Claesz. Anslo in Conversation with his Wife, Aaltje

"The Mennonite Minister Cornelis Claesz. Anslo in Conversation with his Wife, Aaltje" is a distinguished artwork by Rembrandt van Rijn, completed in 1641. This oil on canvas painting, measuring 176 x 210 cm, is housed in the Gemäldegalerie, Berlin. The artwork depicts a contemplative and intimate scene where Mennonite minister Cornelis Claesz. Anslo engages in a thoughtful conversation with his wife, Aaltje. Rembrandt masterfully captures the warmth and depth of their interaction through rich details, subtle lighting, and the serene expressions of the figures, showcasing his remarkable ability to convey human emotion and narrative.

6. Portrait of the Artist at His Easel

Portrait of the Artist at His Easel

The artwork, titled "Portrait of the Artist at His Easel," was crafted by Rembrandt van Rijn in the year 1660. Rendered in oil on canvas, it measures 43 1/2 by 35 1/2 inches (111 by 90 centimeters) and is currently housed in the Musée du Louvre in Paris. The painting depicts the artist engaged in his craft, standing before an easel, with a palette and brushes in hand, using chiaroscuro to highlight his face and hands against a dark, subdued background that captures the introspective and solemn nature of a master at work.

7. Jeremiah lamenting the destruction of Jerusalem

Jeremiah lamenting the destruction of Jerusalem

The artwork titled "Jeremiah Lamenting the Destruction of Jerusalem," created by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1630, is an oil on canvas depicting a poignant religious scene. This piece belongs to the Baroque art movement and measures 46 by 58 centimeters. Known for its profound emotional depth, the painting portrays the prophet Jeremiah in a moment of deep sorrow, reflecting on the catastrophic fall of Jerusalem. Housed in the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam, the artwork exemplifies Rembrandt's mastery in capturing the human experience and pathos through intricate details and dramatic use of light and shadow.

8. The return of the prodigal son

The return of the prodigal son

"The Return of the Prodigal Son," created by Rembrandt van Rijn circa 1662, is an oil painting measuring 262 x 206 cm and is housed in The Hermitage, St. Petersburg. The artwork depicts an emotionally charged scene of a father embracing his repentant son who is kneeling at his feet, symbolizing forgiveness and reconciliation. The figures surrounding the central characters vary in expressions and attire, contributing to the depth and richness of the narrative. Rembrandt's use of light and shadow enhances the dramatic effect, emphasizing the profound emotional exchange at the center of the composition.

9. The raising of the cross

The raising of the cross

"The Raising of the Cross" is an oil on canvas artwork created circa 1633 by the renowned artist Rembrandt van Rijn. It is housed in the Alte Pinakothek in Munich and measures 96.2 by 72.2 centimeters. The artwork depicts the intense and dramatic moment of the crucifixion of Christ, characterized by Rembrandt's masterful use of chiaroscuro to highlight the human struggle, suffering, and divine sacrifice central to this poignant Biblical scene.

10. Self-portrait

Self-portrait
  • Artwork Name: Self-portrait
  • Year: 1658
  • Medium: Oil on Canvas
  • Dimensions: 133.7 x 103.8 cm

The artwork entitled "Self-portrait" was created by the renowned artist Rembrandt van Rijn in 1658. Executed in oil on canvas, this piece measures 133.7 by 103.8 centimeters and is currently housed in The Frick Collection in New York. The artwork portrays the artist himself, captured with rich, warm tones and meticulous attention to the play of light and shadow. The subject, depicted in an opulent robe with a commanding yet introspective demeanor, is seated and holds a staff, symbolizing a sense of authority and introspection. The brushwork and texture add depth and realism, characteristic of Rembrandt's masterful technique.

11. Susanna and the Elders

Susanna and the Elders
  • Artwork Name: Susanna and the Elders
  • Year: 1647
  • Medium: Mahogany
  • Dimensions: 29 7/8 x 36 1/8 in. (76.6 x 92.7 cm)

The artwork "Susanna and the Elders" by Rembrandt van Rijn, created in 1647, is a piece of art crafted on mahogany with dimensions of 29 7/8 by 36 1/8 inches (76.6 by 92.7 cm). It is currently located in the Gemäldegalerie in Berlin. The artwork depicts the biblical story of Susanna, showcasing Rembrandt's mastery in rendering complex human emotions and dramatic tension through his use of light, shadow, and meticulous detail. The painting's dark and somber tone emphasizes the clandestine nature of the scene, highlighting the vulnerability of Susanna and the lecherous intentions of the elders who spy on her.

12. The Archangel Leaving the Family of Tobias

The Archangel Leaving the Family of Tobias

"The Archangel Leaving the Family of Tobias," an oil painting on wood created in 1637 by the renowned artist Rembrandt van Rijn, is currently housed in the Musée du Louvre in Paris. The artwork measures 26 x 20 1/2 inches (66 x 52 cm) and depicts a divine moment in which an archangel, brilliantly illuminated, ascends from the humble setting of Tobias's family. The family members, rendered with dramatic chiaroscuro, display expressions of awe and reverence, enhancing the spiritual and emotional depth of the scene. Rembrandt’s masterful use of light and shadow, combined with his poignant portrayal of the human figures, captures a sense of miraculous departure and the sacred presence of the supernatural.

13. The Mill

The Mill
  • Artwork Name: The Mill
  • Year: c. 1650
  • Medium: Oil on Canvas
  • Dimensions: 34 1/2 x 41 1/2 in. (87.5 x 105.5 cm)

"The Mill," masterfully executed by Rembrandt van Rijn circa 1650, is a profound oil on canvas situated in the esteemed National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. Measuring 34 1/2 by 41 1/2 inches (87.5 x 105.5 cm), the artwork presents a serene yet dramatic landscape dominated by a windmill perched atop a hill, encircled by a tranquil body of water. The atmospheric rendering, characterized by an interplay of light and shadow, reflects Rembrandt's consummate skill in capturing both the grandeur and the intricate subtleties of the natural world, imbuing the landscape with a sense of timeless tranquility and contemplative solitude.

14. Self-Portrait

Self-Portrait
  • Artwork Name: Self-Portrait
  • Year: 1669
  • Medium: Oil on Canvas
  • Dimensions: 86 x 70.5 cm

The artwork, titled "Self-Portrait," was created by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1669. Rendered in oil on canvas, the piece measures 86 by 70.5 centimeters and is housed in the National Gallery, London. The artwork depicts a contemplative older man, possibly the artist himself, characterized by a rich, dark color palette that emphasizes the subject’s solemn expression and detailed facial features, capturing a moment of introspective stillness and artistry.

15. Self-Portrait

Self-Portrait
  • Artwork Name: Self-Portrait
  • Year: c. 1665
  • Medium: Oil on Canvas
  • Dimensions: 143.5 x 125.2 cm

The artwork, entitled "Self-Portrait" and painted by Rembrandt van Rijn around 1665, is an oil on canvas masterpiece measuring 143.5 by 125.2 centimeters. It is currently housed at the Kenwood House in London, under the care of English Heritage. The artwork depicts a contemplative Rembrandt, captured with great subtlety, dressed in a fur robe and white cap, holding an artist's palette and brushes. The nuanced play of light and shadow across his face and garments, along with the somber background, eloquently reflects the introspective mood and masterful technique characteristic of the artist.

16. A Scholar

A Scholar
  • Artwork Name: A Scholar
  • Year: 1631
  • Medium: Oil on Canvas
  • Dimensions: 41 x 36" (104.5 x 92 cm)

The artwork titled "A Scholar," rendered in 1631 by the master artist Rembrandt van Rijn, is an oil-on-canvas masterpiece measuring 104.5 by 92 centimeters. Currently housed in the Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, Russia, the artwork depicts a distinguished scholar deeply engaged in his studies. The scholar is portrayed with meticulous attention to detail, from the fine textures of his ruffled collar to the thoughtful expression on his face as he writes in a large open book. The dimly lit background and the serene ambiance accentuate the contemplation and dedication of the scholar, highlighting Rembrandt's skill in both portraiture and the use of light and shadow.

17. The Blinding of Samson

The Blinding of Samson

"The Blinding of Samson," created in 1636 by the renowned artist Rembrandt van Rijn, is an oil on canvas masterpiece measuring 206 by 276 centimeters. The dramatic artwork, housed in the Städelsches Kunstinstitut in Frankfurt, vividly portrays the intense biblical scene where Samson is overpowered and blinded. The composition masterfully captures the climactic moment with great emotional depth and intricate detail, characteristic of Rembrandt's powerful use of light and shadow to enhance the narrative's tension and tragedy.

18. Rembrandt and Saskia in the Scene of the Prodigal Son in the Tavern

Rembrandt and Saskia in the Scene of the Prodigal Son in the Tavern

"Rembrandt and Saskia in the Scene of the Prodigal Son in the Tavern," created circa 1635 by Rembrandt van Rijn, is an oil on canvas painting measuring 161 by 131 centimeters. The artwork depicts a lively and intimate scene set in a dimly lit tavern, featuring two central figures, a man and a woman, who are engaged in a moment of revelry. The man, dressed in opulent clothing, raises a glass in a toast, exuding a sense of exuberance, while the woman, turned slightly towards the viewer, looks on with a composed yet inviting expression. The richly painted textures and the interplay of light and shadow showcase Rembrandt's masterful use of chiaroscuro, creating a vivid and dynamic portrayal that resonates with the theme of indulgence and merriment.

19. Joseph Accused by Potiphar's Wife

Joseph Accused by Potiphar's Wife

The artwork, titled "Joseph Accused by Potiphar's Wife," was painted by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1655 using oil on canvas. Measuring 41 5/8 x 38 1/2 inches (106 x 98 cm), this painting is currently housed in the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C. The artwork vividly captures a dramatic biblical scene where Joseph is being wrongfully accused by Potiphar's wife, rendering a poignant moment of tension and despair with Rembrandt's characteristic use of light and shadow to enhance the emotional intensity.

20. Portrait of a Lady with an Ostrich-Feather Fan

Portrait of a Lady with an Ostrich-Feather Fan

The artwork "Portrait of a Lady with an Ostrich-Feather Fan," rendered by the illustrious artist Rembrandt van Rijn circa 1660, is an exquisite oil on canvas painting measuring 39 1/8 by 32 1/2 inches (99.5 x 82.5 cm). Currently housed in the National Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., the artwork captures the elegant and dignified visage of a lady, adorned in fine clothing and holding an ostrich-feather fan. The figure is bathed in the gentle, yet dramatic, chiaroscuro lighting characteristic of Rembrandt's masterful style, lending a graceful and contemplative ambiance to the composition.

21. Portrait of Nicolaes Ruts

Portrait of Nicolaes Ruts

"Portrait of Nicolaes Ruts," created by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1631, is a distinguished oil on panel painting measuring 118.5 by 88.5 cm. This artwork, currently housed in The Frick Collection in New York, depicts a middle-aged man adorned in luxurious attire suggestive of wealth and status. Detailed attention to textures, such as the fur trim of the subject's cloak and the intricate lace of his ruff, exemplifies Rembrandt's mastery in capturing both the physical and psychological essence of his subject. The man's contemplative expression and the subtle play of light and shadow further enhance the painting's lifelike quality.

22. Philosopher in Meditation

Philosopher in Meditation

"Philosopher in Meditation" is a 1632 oil on board painting by Rembrandt van Rijn, representing the Baroque art movement. Housed in the Louvre in Paris, France, this genre painting features dimensions of 34 x 28 cm. The artwork masterfully portrays a serene and contemplative scene, where a solitary figure, presumably the philosopher, is seated near a sunlit window within an elegantly constructed interior, complete with a spiral staircase. The use of light and shadow exemplifies Rembrandt's renowned skill in creating atmospheric depth and engaging viewers in the quiet introspection of the subject.

23. The raising of Lazarus

The raising of Lazarus

The artwork, titled "The Raising of Lazarus," is an oil on panel creation by the esteemed artist Rembrandt van Rijn, dating circa 1630. The dimensions of the artwork are 96.2 x 81.5 cm, and it is housed in the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. The scene depicted is a dramatic biblical moment where Lazarus is resurrected, showcasing Rembrandt's masterful use of chiaroscuro to highlight the intense emotion and depth of the event. The figures surrounding Lazarus include a central figure with an outstretched arm, possibly symbolizing divine intervention or command, while the stark contrast of light and shadow emphasizes the miraculous occurrence.

24. The Jewish Bride (The Loving Couple)

The Jewish Bride (The Loving Couple)

The artwork, titled "The Jewish Bride (The Loving Couple)", was created by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1666 using oil on canvas. It is currently housed in the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. The piece depicts a tender moment between a couple, characterized by its rich textures and profound emotional depth. The man gently places his hand on the woman's chest, evoking a sense of intimacy and mutual affection. Rembrandt's masterful use of light and shadow, along with his attention to detail in the figures' expressions and attire, enhances the emotional resonance and realism of the scene.

25. Holy Family

Holy Family
  • Artwork Name: Holy Family
  • Year: 1640
  • Medium: Oil on wood
  • Dimensions: 16 1/4 x 13 1/2" (41 x 34 cm)

The artwork titled "Holy Family" is a creation by Rembrandt van Rijn, painted in 1640. This oil on wood masterpiece, measuring 16 1/4 x 13 1/2 inches (41 x 34 cm), is currently housed in the Musée du Louvre in Paris. The artwork depicts an intimate domestic scene, with the central focus on the maternal figure tenderly tending to an infant, symbolizing the Holy Family. The artist skillfully uses light and shadow to highlight the serene and sacred nature of the moment, creating a tranquil yet profound atmosphere within the humble abode.

26. Descent from the Cross

Descent from the Cross

The artwork "Descent from the Cross," crafted by the eminent artist Rembrandt van Rijn in 1634, is a masterful oil on canvas painting measuring 62 by 46 inches (158 by 117 cm). Currently housed in the Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, Russia, the painting portrays the somber and poignant moment of Jesus Christ's descent from the cross following the crucifixion. Rembrandt's use of chiaroscuro dramatically highlights the figures involved in this biblical scene, focusing on the tender, yet sorrowful interactions among them. The evocative use of light and shadow, along with the meticulously captured expressions and gestures, imbues the scene with a profound sense of reverence and human emotion.

27. David and Jonathan

David and Jonathan
  • Artwork Name: David and Jonathan
  • Year: 1642
  • Medium: Oil on panel
  • Dimensions: 29 x 24 in. (73 x 61.5 cm)

The artwork, titled "David and Jonathan," was created by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1642. Executed in oil on panel, the painting measures 29 by 24 inches (73 by 61.5 cm) and is currently housed in the Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, Russia. The painting portrays a poignant scene between David and Jonathan, capturing a moment of deep emotional connection and camaraderie against a backdrop that suggests a historical and possibly regal setting. Rembrandt's mastery is evident in the rich use of color, intricate detailing, and the evocative rendering of light and shadow, which contribute to the overall sense of intimacy and gravity in the artwork.

28. The Little Children Being Brought to Jesus (The 100 Guilder Print)

The Little Children Being Brought to Jesus (The 100 Guilder Print)

"The Little Children Being Brought to Jesus (The 100 Guilder Print)" is an etching and drypoint masterpiece by Rembrandt van Rijn, created between 1647 and 1649. This artwork, measuring 27.8 by 38.8 centimeters, is housed at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. The scene depicted in the artwork shows Jesus surrounded by a multitude of figures, embodying a harmonious blend of light and shadow to highlight the central figure of Jesus and the expressions of reverence and supplication on the surrounding individuals, capturing a moment of profound spiritual significance.

29. Judith at the Banquet of Holophernes

Judith at the Banquet of Holophernes

The artwork, titled "Judith at the Banquet of Holophernes," was created by the renowned artist Rembrandt van Rijn in the year 1634. Executed in oil on canvas, the dimensions of the painting are 55 7/8 x 59 7/8 inches (142 x 152 cm). Currently, the piece is housed in the Museo del Prado in Madrid. In the artwork, Judith is depicted in a moment of poised elegance, adorned in sumptuous attire that reflects her regal status. She is seated at a lavish banquet table with rich fabrics and intricate details, while holding a thoughtful yet resolute expression, characteristic of Rembrandt's masterful use of light and shadow to convey depth and emotion.

30. Aristotle contemplating a bust of Homer

Aristotle contemplating a bust of Homer

The artwork, "Aristotle contemplating a bust of Homer," painted by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1653, is an oil on canvas masterpiece belonging to the Baroque art movement. Measuring 143.5 by 136.5 centimeters, this portrait and history painting resides in the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City. The painting portrays the philosopher Aristotle, deep in contemplation, resting his hand on the bust of the ancient poet Homer, symbolizing a profound connection between the classical wisdom and the intellectual introspection of the Enlightenment era.

31. Abraham and Isaac

Abraham and Isaac
  • Artwork Name: Abraham and Isaac
  • Year: 1634
  • Medium: Oil on Canvas
  • Dimensions: 193 x 132 cm

The artwork titled "Abraham and Isaac," created by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1634, is an oil on canvas painting measuring 193 by 132 cm. Currently housed in the Hermitage Museum in Saint Petersburg, Russia, this powerful masterpiece captures the dramatic biblical scene in which Abraham is stopped by an angel just as he is about to sacrifice his son, Isaac. The intense chiaroscuro technique employed by Rembrandt heightens the emotional tension, emphasizing the despair and reverence in Abraham's expression while the angel intervenes at the crucial moment. The dark, moody background contrasts starkly with the illuminated figures, showcasing Rembrandt's mastery in evoking deep emotional and spiritual themes through his sublime use of light and shadow.

32. The Feast of Belshazzar

The Feast of Belshazzar

"The Feast of Belshazzar," created by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1635, is an oil on canvas religious painting belonging to the Baroque art movement. It is housed in the National Gallery in London and measures 209.2 x 167.6 cm. The artwork depicts a biblical scene with dramatic lighting and expressions, characterized by Rembrandt's signature use of chiaroscuro. Central to the painting is the figure of King Belshazzar, whose grand gestures and opulent attire are contrasted with the mysterious divine handwriting on the wall, capturing the moment of prophetic revelation and divine judgment.

33. The Man with the Golden Helmet

The Man with the Golden Helmet

The artwork, "The Man with the Golden Helmet," is an exquisite oil on canvas created circa 1650 by the renowned artist Rembrandt van Rijn. Measuring 67 by 50 centimeters, this painting is housed in the Gemäldegalerie in Berlin. The composition features a solemn figure adorned in opulent, intricately detailed golden armor, with a particular emphasis on the resplendent helmet, skillfully highlighted against a dark, shadowy background, exemplifying Rembrandt's mastery in portraying light and texture.

34. The company of Frans Banning Cock preparing to march out, known as the Nightwatch

The company of Frans Banning Cock preparing to march out, known as the Nightwatch

The artwork, titled "The Company of Frans Banning Cocq Preparing to March Out," commonly known as "The Night Watch," is a masterful oil on canvas painting by Rembrandt van Rijn, completed in 1642. Measuring 363 x 437 cm, this renowned piece is housed in the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. The scene vividly captures an animated militia group, led by Captain Frans Banning Cocq, preparing for action. Rembrandt's use of light and shadow, along with the dynamic positioning of figures, brings a sense of drama and movement to the composition, epitomizing his skill in rendering human expression and emotion.

35. The Syndics of the Clothmaker's Guild (The Staalmeesters)

The Syndics of the Clothmaker's Guild (The Staalmeesters)

The artwork, titled "The Syndics of the Clothmaker's Guild (The Staalmeesters)," was painted by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1662. This oil painting, created during the Baroque period, measures 191 by 279 cm and is a portrait genre piece. It is currently housed in the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam. The artwork depicts a group of six men, presumed to be members of the clothmaker's guild, seated around a table, engaged in consultation, their stern expressions and formal attire indicative of their important societal roles. The masterful use of light and detail highlights Rembrandt's signature style and the baroque movement's emphasis on realism and dramatic intensity.

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