Artwork
The Death of the Virgin
The Death of the Virgin is an ink print by the Baroque artist Rembrandt. It dates from 1639 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
The Death of the Virgin is a print created by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1639, combining etching and drypoint techniques.
Subject & Meaning
The scene depicts a crowded, dimly lit room where a group of people gather around a bed, with one figure lying on it. The composition conveys a sense of drama and emotional intensity, with a tall candleholder casting long shadows.
Technique & Style
Rembrandt employed loose, expressive lines and quick, sketchy strokes to capture movement and emotion. The contrast between dark and light areas creates a dramatic lighting effect, while the use of etching and drypoint techniques adds texture to the image.
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.
