Artwork
Joseph's Dream (Studio of Rembrandt, 1650-1655)
Joseph's Dream (Studio of Rembrandt, 1650-1655) is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Rembrandt. It dates from 1650 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts, Budapest.
About this work
Overview
Joseph's Dream is an oil on canvas painting created between 1650 and 1655 by artists in Rembrandt's studio, including Barent Fabritius. Now housed at the Museum of Fine Arts in Budapest, the work depicts a pivotal biblical scene.
Subject & Meaning
The painting illustrates the second dream of Saint Joseph, as described in Matthew 2:13-15, where he is warned of the impending Massacre of the Innocents. The scene focuses on the quiet, contemplative moment of revelation.
Technique & Style
Characterized by a dominant dark background and a single, warm light source, the painting employs chiaroscuro, a hallmark of the Rembrandt studio's style. The emotional introspection of the figures is also reminiscent of Rembrandt's characteristic depth of human portrayal.
History & Provenance
Originally attributed to Rembrandt in the 1908 catalog raisonné, by 1935 it was reclassified as a studio work, a determination supported by the Rembrandt Research Project. The painting was auctioned in Amsterdam in 1755, later purchased by the Museum of Fine Arts, Budapest, from Alois Hauser the Elder's collection in 1885.
Context
A preparatory pen sketch by Rembrandt for the composition exists, housed in the Kupferstichkabinett Berlin, indicating his involvement in the project's inception.
Artist & collection
Artist
Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn (15 July 1606 – 4 October 1669), known mononymously as Rembrandt, was a Dutch Golden Age painter, printmaker, and draughtsman.
