Student at a table by candlelight c. 1642

"Student at a Table by Candlelight" is a 1642 etching by Dutch master Rembrandt van Rijn. The print depicts a student, illuminated by a single candle, in the act of writing or reading. This intimate scene exemplifies Rembrandt's mastery of chiaroscuro, the technique of contrasting light and dark. Rembrandt's use of shadow and light, creating a sense of depth and drama, gives the viewer a glimpse into the student's concentrated study. The small scale of the etching adds to the intimate feel of the work. This piece is a prime example of Rembrandt's ability to capture the ordinary moments of life with great detail and emotional resonance.