Christ Preaching c. 1652

Rembrandt van Rijn's etching "Christ Preaching" (c. 1652) depicts a pivotal moment in the life of Jesus. The scene, set in a humble, outdoor space, shows Christ standing on a platform, his hands raised in a gesture of preaching to a gathering of people. The etching captures the energy and emotion of the event, with the figures rendered in Rembrandt's signature style of dynamic, expressive lines. The use of light and shadow creates depth and a sense of intimacy, drawing the viewer into the moment of Christ's message. This small-scale etching, measuring 6 1/8 x 8 1/16 in. (15.6 x 20.5 cm) (sheet), is now housed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art.