Death of the Virgin

The solemn and powerful depiction, Death of the Virgin, was created by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1639. This major work exemplifies the Dutch Golden Age of printmaking and showcases Rijn’s technical mastery of the demanding etching and drypoint media. Produced in the Netherlands, this composition reflects the intense focus on religious narrative and emotional realism prevalent in Northern European art of the period.

Unlike simple line engravings, Rijn utilized drypoint to create rich, velvety burr, enhancing the dramatic shadows and deep tones necessary for the sacred subject. The scene is characterized by the Virgin Mary on her deathbed, surrounded by grieving Apostles and perhaps celestial figures, relying on profound chiaroscuro to heighten the spiritual intensity. Rijn carefully manipulated the density of the etched lines to create a palpable sense of atmosphere often associated with his greatest graphical compositions.

This piece, regarded as one of Rijn’s most ambitious prints from the late 1630s, reveals his deep psychological insight into the religious narrative, departing from traditional conventions of the theme. It represents the height of the artist's inventive approach to the print medium during this decade. The work resides today within the permanent collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art, preserving a crucial example of 17th-century European graphic design. For researchers and enthusiasts worldwide, high-resolution reproductions of significant prints like this often enter the public domain, ensuring continued access to the artistry of this Baroque master.