Christ preaching ('La Petite Tombe')

Christ preaching ('La Petite Tombe') by Rembrandt van Rijn, created in 1657, is a pivotal work within the artist's immense catalog of prints. Executed on paper, this piece showcases the Dutch master’s innovative use of etching and drypoint techniques, characteristic of his deeply personal late-career graphic output. The composition centers on the figure of Christ, dramatically bathed in an almost divine light, addressing a diverse crowd of listeners clustered around him in a shadowed interior.

Rijn skillfully manipulates light and shadow, defining the dramatic mood through heavy cross-hatching and deep blacks in the foreground, which contrast sharply with the illuminated central figure. This careful handling of chiaroscuro emphasizes the spiritual nature of the sermon, drawing the viewer’s eye toward the divine message. The audience includes figures from different social strata, highlighting the universality of Christ's teaching; some are attentive and pious, while others appear skeptical or distracted, creating a dynamic and naturalistic narrative.

Known colloquially as 'La Petite Tombe'—a nickname derived from the tomb-like structure visible near the central figure—this graphic work is celebrated for its evocative atmosphere and detailed rendering of human emotion. While many of Rijn's creations achieved widespread fame shortly after their production, this impression demonstrates the high quality and technical experimentation inherent in his print medium. It remains a crucial object for the study of 17th-century Dutch art. As a historical work of art, Christ preaching ('La Petite Tombe') is preserved in the prestigious collection of the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam. High-resolution images of these master prints are often available through public domain collections, allowing global access to the enduring artistry of the Dutch Golden Age.