Rembrandt is revered not only as a painter, but as a supreme master of drawing and etching as well. His work in etching spanned most of his career and embraced the wide range of subjects he pursued in his painting: portraits, landscapes, biblical scenes, pictures with allegorical and mythological themes, and more. This comprehensive collection contains Rembrandt's complete etchings — over 300 works — most of them shown in their original size. They have been reproduced directly from a rare collection famed for its pristine condition, fresh, clean impressions, rich contrasts, and brilliant printing.
Among the etchings included are: Self portrait drawing at a window (1648); Abraham's sacrifice (1655); Christ preaching ["The hundred-guilder print"] (ca. 1643–49); Christ crucified between the two thieves ["The three crosses"] (1653); The return of the prodigal son (1636); The three trees (1643); Faust (ca. 1652); Jan Six (1647); The great Jewish bride (1635); The strolling musicians (ca. 1635). The etchings are reproduced from the originals themselves rather than from reduced photographs, which can depart significantly in quality from the originals.
This handsome volume is filled with information critical to fully appreciating the extraordinary images it contains. Detailed captions point out features of special interest and provide vital information such as title, signature, date, collection, Bartsch number, state of impression reproduced, and total number of states. Also included are a chronology of Rembrandt's life and etchings, a discussion of the technique of etching in his time, and an excellent bibliography. Art lovers, scholars, students of etching, and anyone with an interest in Rembrandt and his work will find in this beautiful book a rare and exciting visual experience.