Self-Portrait, 1659, Rembrandt van Rijn
The 17th-century Dutch painter and printmaker Rembrandt van Rijn is widely regarded as one of the great innovators in Western art. Though best known for his psychologically revealing self-portraits, he is also an acknowledged master of light and shadow, rich color, and luxuriant brushwork, qualities that would be emulated by generations of later artists.
Using high-resolution images that provide an uncommonly close look at Rembrandt’s paintings, art historian Aneta Georgievska-Shine explores some of the most unique aspects of his artistic language. By investigating a range of works, including his self-portraits, his most successful public commission The Night Watch, and his depictions of characters from the Old Testament and classical history, she shares what makes Rembrandt truly a master of his art.
9:30–10:45 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 a.m.–12:15 p.m. Painting and Story-Telling
Rembrandt’s approach to history in paintings that tell stories, whether from the Bible or classical mythology.
12:15–1:15 p.m. Lunch (participants provide their own)
1:15–2:15 p.m. Rembrandt’s Loves: Portrayals of Women
A closer examination of of the most intimate of Rembrandt’s works, focusing on his relationships with two women, his wife Saskia vam Uylenburgh, and his long-term partner, Hendrickje Stoffels.
2:30–4 p.m. The Self-Portrait as a Diary
One of the most remarkable facets of Rembrandt’s output are his self-portraits, which document how he looked—or how he decided to represent himself to the world—throughout his life.
World Art History Certificate elective: Earn 1 credit*
*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.
