The Portrait of Ephraim Bueno by Rembrandt van Rijn, created between 1645 and 1647, is an intimate depiction executed using oil paint applied to an oak wood panel. This piece reflects Rijn's stylistic developments during the mid-1640s, showcasing a move toward broader handling of paint and a heightened psychological focus on the sitter, characteristic of his mature output.
The subject, Dr. Ephraim Bueno (c. 1592-1665), was a prominent Portuguese Sephardic Jewish physician and intellectual living in Amsterdam. His inclusion among Rijn's sitters highlights the significant role that the city’s affluent and diverse merchant and professional communities played in sponsoring high art during the Dutch Golden Age. Rijn depicts Bueno in half-length, utilizing subtle shifts in shadow and a concentrated light source to draw attention to the sitter’s contemplative expression and dignified bearing. The work serves not only as a portrait but as an important cultural document regarding the social standing of Amsterdam's Jewish community during this era.
This masterful work, which demonstrates Rijn’s ability to imbue formal portraiture with intense personal introspection, is a significant component of the Dutch painting collection held by the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. Although the original painting remains a protected artifact, high-quality images of the artwork are frequently made available in the public domain. This accessibility ensures that scholars and art enthusiasts worldwide can obtain fine art prints and study the techniques of Rijn’s portraiture in detail.
Important: ArtBee makes no warranties about the copyright status of this artwork. To the best of our knowledge, based on information from the source museum, we believe this work is in the public domain.
You are responsible for determining the rights status and securing any permissions needed for your use. Copyright status may vary by jurisdiction. See our License & Usage page and Terms of Service for details.