Adoration of the Shepherds: A Night Piece 1652 - 1662

Rembrandt van Rijn created this print, Adoration of the Shepherds: A Night Piece, using etching and drypoint. Made in the Dutch Republic, it offers a window into the religious and social sensibilities of the 17th century. The print depicts the biblical scene of the shepherds visiting the newborn Jesus. But it's the image's shadowy quality, achieved through the printmaking techniques, that is particularly interesting. This obscures details, creating a sense of mystery. It draws the viewer's attention to the expressions of awe on the faces of the figures. The choice to depict the scene at night, along with the humble setting, reflects the cultural values of the time. The Dutch Republic valued piety and humility. Rembrandt frequently challenged the established norms of art. He often chose to depict biblical scenes with ordinary people in everyday settings, rather than idealized figures in grand surroundings. To fully appreciate the work, one can delve into historical texts, religious studies, and Rembrandt's biography. This will help us to reveal the social and institutional contexts in which this image was created.