Copy after the Levite and the Violated Woman

Copy after the Levite and the Violated Woman by Follower of Rembrandt van Rijn Dutch, 1606-1669, is an intense drawing executed in pen and brown ink on cream laid paper. Created sometime between 1626 and 1669, this piece is likely based upon an original work or sketch by the master, Rembrandt van Rijn, illustrating a dramatic historical subject popular in the period. The subject, drawn from the Old Testament Book of Judges (Chapter 19), depicts one of the most disturbing narratives in the Hebrew Bible: the discovery of the dead concubine by the Levite after she was assaulted by the men of Gibeah.

The skilled technique employed in the drawing suggests a close knowledge of Rembrandt’s mature graphic style. The anonymous artist utilizes robust, flowing lines combined with fine hatching to create depth and shadow, characteristic of Dutch narrative art from the Golden Age. While the original inspiration may be attributed to Rembrandt, this follower captures the emotional weight and stark realism typical of the Netherlands art culture. Such drawings often served multiple functions, acting as preparatory studies, teaching aids, or valuable references that sometimes informed the creation of subsequent prints that circulated widely, disseminating the master's compositions.

Currently classified as a drawing within the permanent collection of the Art Institute of Chicago, this work provides a valuable record of the historical and religious themes studied by artists working in Rembrandt’s orbit. Because major cultural institutions often release high-resolution images of these important historic works, the composition of Copy after the Levite and the Violated Woman is widely accessible, allowing students and scholars worldwide to study the draughtsmanship traditions of the seventeenth-century Netherlands.