“Rembrandt True to Life” Exhibition at NGV Celebrates the Dutch Master’s Work

Introduction

The National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) is currently hosting the most comprehensive exhibition of Rembrandt’s work in Australia since their last major exhibition dedicated to the artist 25 years ago. Titled “Rembrandt: True to Life,” the exhibition showcases the evolution of Rembrandt’s talents over four decades, from his early years in Leiden to his bankruptcy in the 1650s. Dr Petra Kayser, the curator of prints and drawings at NGV, believes that there’s never a bad time to appreciate the old masters, and Rembrandt’s art continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

Rembrandt: A Master of Dutch History

Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn, considered the most important artist in Dutch history and one of the greatest in the world, left behind an impressive body of work. Throughout his career, he produced approximately 300 paintings, 300 etchings, and 2000 drawings. His artistry and technical brilliance continue to inspire artists and art enthusiasts alike. The NGV’s exhibition aims to celebrate Rembrandt’s life and work by showcasing his diverse range of artistic skills.

The Exhibition: A Journey through Rembrandt’s Career

“Rembrandt: True to Life” at NGV takes visitors on a journey through the different stages of Rembrandt’s career. The exhibition begins with his early works in Leiden during the 1620s and concludes with his late works in the 1650s. By starting and ending the exhibition with two of Rembrandt’s paintings, the NGV provides a comprehensive overview of the artist’s career. The gallery’s collection naturally lent itself to this approach, with two Rembrandt paintings that beautifully represent the scope and timeline of his artistic development.

The Power of Prints: Rembrandt’s Etchings

One of the highlights of the exhibition is the display of over 100 prints made from Rembrandt’s original etchings. Rembrandt’s mastery of etching, a form of printmaking popularized in the 16th century, set him apart from his contemporaries. While most artists of the 17th century stuck to linear patterns in their etchings, Rembrandt pushed the boundaries of the medium. He created incredibly detailed self-portraits, nudes, biblical depictions, and landscapes, showcasing his versatility and innovation.

Organizing the Prints: Themes and Styles

The prints in the exhibition are organized by theme to showcase the breadth of Rembrandt’s work and the development of his artistic skills. In 17th-century Holland, most artists specialized in specific genres such as landscape painting or portraiture. However, Rembrandt excelled in various styles and subjects. By organizing the prints thematically, the exhibition allows visitors to appreciate the range and evolution of Rembrandt’s art. The prints are displayed alongside some of Rembrandt’s most notable paintings, including his Self-Portrait from 1659 on loan from the National Gallery of Art in Washington DC, as well as portraits borrowed from the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam and the Louvre in Paris.

Conclusion

“Rembrandt: True to Life” at NGV offers visitors a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the art and legacy of Rembrandt. With over 100 prints and notable paintings on display, the exhibition provides a comprehensive overview of the artist’s career and showcases his mastery of various styles and subjects. Dr Petra Kayser, the curator of prints and drawings at NGV, believes that there is never a bad time to appreciate the old masters, and Rembrandt’s work continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.

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