Daniel in the Lions’ Den

Daniel in the Lions’ Den by Rembrandt van Rijn, created around 1650, is an exceptional drawing that demonstrates the artist’s mastery of narrative and dramatic lighting during his late career. Executed on paper using a complex combination of deck paint and ink, this piece transcends a typical sketch, offering the psychological depth associated with his finished oil works. The medium allows Rijn to explore light and darkness, utilizing the contrast to highlight the central miraculous event.

This drawing is characteristic of the profound engagement with Biblical themes prevalent in the Dutch Golden Age. Rijn interprets the moment of salvation for the prophet Daniel, illustrating him in the den surrounded by large, powerful beasts. The technical finesse in the handling of the ink washes and deck paint underscores Rijn’s continued dedication to drawing as an autonomous art form, distinct from simple preparatory work. The composition focuses intently on Daniel's piety and the fearful reverence of the lions, emphasizing the spiritual drama rather than the physical threat.

This highly significant work from the Netherlands culture is now maintained within the esteemed collection of the Rijksmuseum. The profound emotional power of pieces like Daniel in the Lions’ Den ensured their wide appeal among collectors of the period. Today, the enduring interest in Rijn's work means that high-quality prints and reproductions of the artist’s drawings are often made available through resources derived from the public domain, allowing broader access to these masterworks of draftsmanship.