The Circumcision: Small Plate

The Circumcision: Small Plate by Rembrandt van Rijn Dutch, 1606-1669, is a concise and emotionally resonant depiction of the biblical event marking the ritual induction of the infant Christ. Created early in the artist’s career, between 1625 and 1635, this small yet powerful work showcases Rembrandt's precocious command of graphic techniques. The medium is etching with drypoint, executed on delicate ivory laid paper. This combination allowed the artist to achieve both the sharp, finely detailed lines typical of etching and the rich, velvety shadows characteristic of the drypoint burr, enhancing the scene’s dramatic intensity.

Despite its diminutive scale, the composition is tightly focused, concentrating attention on the small group of figures surrounding the infant. Rembrandt’s dramatic use of light and deep shadow underscores the serious, intimate nature of the ritual, utilizing the visual language of the Baroque period prevalent in the Netherlands.

As a leading Dutch artist, Rembrandt frequently employed the print medium, finding it an effective tool for distributing his powerful theological narratives to a wide audience. The creation of such devotional prints established him as a master of the graphic arts. Many of these seminal works, including this composition, are frequently reproduced as high-quality prints available through public domain initiatives today. This particular impression of The Circumcision: Small Plate is permanently housed in the respected collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.