The Night Watch by Rembrandt van Rijn
Rembrandt van Rijn (1606–1669) is widely considered as one of the most important and influential figures in Western art. Though best known for his psychologically revealing self-portraits, he is also an unrivaled master of light and shadow and expressive, luxuriant brushwork, qualities that would be emulated by generations of later artists.
Art historian Aneta Georgievska-Shine explores the most distinctive aspects of Rembrandt’s artistic language through close looking and an analysis of some of his greatest masterpieces—from his public commissions such as The Night Watch to his representations of stories from classical history and the Old Testament, as well as in his most private of works.
10 –11 a.m. Rembrandt’s Formation and Breakthrough
An overview of the development of Rembrandt’s style, from his first years in Leiden to his establishment in Amsterdam
11:15 a.m.–12:15 p.m. Painting and Story-Telling
Examine Rembrandt’s approach to pictorial narratives in paintings based on classical history and the Bible.
12:15–12:45 p.m. Break
12:45–1:45 p.m. Rembrandt’s Loves: Portrayals of Women
Consider some of the most intimate of Rembrandt’s works, focusing on his wife Saskia van Uylenburgh and his longtime partner after Saskia’s death, Hendrickje Stoffels.
2–3 p.m. The Self-Portrait as Diary
One of the most remarkable facets of Rembrandt’s oeuvre are his self-portraits, which document both how he looked and how he chose to represent himself to the world throughout his life.
World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1 credit*
General Information
*Enrolled participants in the World Art History Certificate Program receive 1 elective credit. Not yet enrolled? Learn about the program, its benefits, and how to register here.
