Rijksmuseum researchers discover new painting by Rembrandt van Rijn

This article was first published by the Rijksmuseum.

Researchers at the Rijksmuseum have demonstrated that the painting Vision of Zacharias in the Temple (1633) was made by Rembrandt. They examined the work with the same advanced techniques used in Operation Night Watch, and closely compared it with other paintings by Rembrandt from the same period. Materials analysis, stylistic and thematic similarities, alterations made by Rembrandt, and the overall quality of the painting all support the conclusion that this painting is a genuine work by Rembrandt van Rijn. The work is on long-term loan to the Rijksmuseum from a private collector and will be on view to the public from Wednesday 4 March.

It’s wonderful that people can now learn more about the young Rembrandt – he created this very poignant work shortly after moving from Leiden to Amsterdam. It is a beautiful example of the unique way Rembrandt depicts stories.

Taco Dibbits, Director of the Rijksmuseum

Zacharias

The painting depicts a scene from the biblical story of high priest Zacharias. It shows the moment Zacharias receives a visit in the temple from the Archangel Gabriel. The angel tells Zacharias that, despite his and his wife’s advanced age, they will have a son: John the Baptist. The angel is not shown in the painting, but the light shining from the upper right corner heralds his arrival. Zacharias’ expression of surprise reflects his incredulity.