Medea: or the marriage of Jason and Creusa

Medea: or the marriage of Jason and Creusa is a significant print created by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1648. Executed on paper, this masterful work showcases Rijn’s deep engagement with classical narrative and his innovative use of etching and drypoint techniques during the later stages of his career. The classification of the piece as a print confirms its status as an accessible, reproducible form of art, which was highly popular in the thriving Dutch art market of the Golden Age.

The subject draws directly from classical mythology, specifically the tragic aftermath following Jason's decision to leave Medea for Creusa, princess of Corinth. Rijn often utilized historical and mythological themes to explore extreme human emotion and drama. In Medea: or the marriage of Jason and Creusa, the artist demonstrates his technical skill in printmaking, using sharp lines, densely etched areas, and varied textures to establish a dark, emotionally charged atmosphere suitable for the violent narrative. The scene captures the high emotional tension of the impending tragedy driven by Medea’s rage and grief.

This compelling work from 1648 is held in the prestigious collection of the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. As one of the most celebrated prints produced by Rijn, its reputation has grown internationally, influencing subsequent generations of artists working in the graphic arts. Because the work is highly studied, high-quality images of this classic print are frequently made available through public domain initiatives, ensuring that scholars and enthusiasts worldwide can access and study the intricate details of Rijn’s profound mythological interpretation. This accessibility reinforces the enduring legacy of Rijn’s contributions to the history of prints.