The Presentation in the Temple

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

Associated Jesus Christ

Date1640

Mediumetching and drypoint on paper

ClassificationsPrints

DimensionsPlate Size: Height: 21.5 cm, Width: 29.1 cm
Frame: Height: 39.1 cm, Width: 43.8 cm

AcquisitionPurchased in 1919.

CopyrightOut of copyright - CC0

LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub

Object numberABDAG006810

Keywords

About MeThis appears to be an authentic etching, albeit a later impression of an original plate and has lost some of the contrast in the dark and light areas. The composition dates from around the same time as 'Christ Healing the Sick' (the Hundred Guilder Print) and marks the beginning of Rembrandt's use of drypoint along with etching to create the effects of tonal gradation.

Drypoint was always used by etchers as a way of correcting or amending a plate. As the term suggests, the process is dry (it does not require the acid bath) and employs a sharp point with which the artist draws into the metal. Unlike the clean lines bitten by acid during the etching process, the drypoint tool throws up a burr of metal which gives the printed line a fuzzy edge. This metal burr is extremely fragile and does not survive extensive print runs.
More About Me

Collections Wall

From the time when the artist was beginning to use drypoint along with etching; the burrs of metal left by the sharp point give a fuzzy edge, enhancing tonal gradation