Adoration of the Shepherds

Artist Rembrandt van Rijn (Leiden, Netherlands, 1606 - 1669)

AssociatedAssociated with Jesus Christ

Date1653

Mediumetching

ClassificationsPrints

DimensionsPlate Size: Height: 15.2 cm, Width: 20.1 cm

AcquisitionPurchased in 1909.

CopyrightOut of copyright - CC0

LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub

Object numberABDAG006808

Keywords

About Me'The Adoration of the Shepherds' is one of a series of subjects worked in the early 1650s which Rembrandt sets in profound darkness. His night scenes explore the use of dark tones in printmaking and are achieved by repeated working of the plate through successive states.

He brings an earthy Dutch realism to this familiar biblical subject. The Holy Family huddle under a bundle of covers. Just as if we have walked into a darkened room, our eyes struggle to make out the figures that have been swallowed up by the blackness.

More About Me

Collections Wall

The exploration of nocturnes and night scenes was popularised by Caravaggio in the early 17th century. Rembrandt brought the study further through his printmaking.