The Circumcision: Small Plate c. 1630

"The Circumcision: Small Plate" is an etching by Rembrandt van Rijn, created around 1630. The print depicts the biblical scene of the circumcision of Jesus, with a priest performing the ritual while others look on. Rembrandt masterfully captures the solemnity of the event, using deep shadows and dramatic light to create a sense of awe and reverence. The artist's use of cross-hatching creates a sense of depth and texture, highlighting the intricate details of the figures' clothing and the surrounding space. This small, intimate work demonstrates Rembrandt's early mastery of etching, a technique he would later refine and utilize to create his most famous prints. The Art Institute of Chicago houses this piece.