Rembrandt's Themes: Life into Art - Hardcover

Verdi, Richard

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 0300201532 ISBN 13: 9780300201536

Publisher: Yale University Press, 2014

Synopsis

Rembrandt van Rjin (1606–1669) 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 artist’s profound humanity and at times reflect the circumstances of his life. This illuminating study explores some of the central themes of Rembrandt’s 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 Rembrandt’s subjects can offer new revelations about this complex artist.

About this title

Book Description:

This illuminating account explores the subjects of Rembrandt’s art, which reveal much about this acclaimed master, his work, and, above all, his profound humanity.

About the Author:

Richard Verdi is former professor of fine art and director of Barber Institute of Fine Arts, University of Birmingham. 

About this edition

• Publisher: Yale University Press
• Publication date: 2014
• ISBN 10: 0300201532
• ISBN 13: 9780300201536
• Binding: Hardcover
• Number of pages: 308