The Death of the Virgin

“The Death of the Virgin,” created by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1639, is a monumental example of Dutch Golden Age printmaking. This substantial work utilizes both etching and drypoint techniques, allowing Rembrandt to achieve rich contrasts and tonal complexity uncommon in standard etchings of the period. The subject depicts the moment of the Virgin Mary’s earthly passing, a scene treated not with stylized religious formality, but with an intense realism characteristic of the artist's mature style.

The dramatic composition focuses on the Virgin Mary lying in a massive, darkened bed, surrounded by a dense crowd of mourning apostles and observers. Above the terrestrial plane, a brilliant light cuts through the darkness, revealing groups of tiny angels hovering and attending to the transition of her soul. Rembrandt skillfully employed the drypoint technique to darken critical areas, particularly around the heavy drapery and the assembled figures, enhancing the solemnity of the event and guiding the viewer's eye toward the deceased Virgin. The deep blacks and velvety burr effects created by the drypoint needle elevate the texture and emotional intensity of this impression above typical line work.

This specific impression represents the fourth of five known states, demonstrating Rembrandt’s meticulous process of refinement, a trait highly valued in his oeuvre. As one of his most recognized large-scale religious prints, the image encapsulates the profound spiritual introspection that defined his interpretations of biblical narratives. This significant piece is held in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Because many of the Old Master’s works, including high-quality prints like this one, have entered the public domain, their detailed study and widespread availability continue to inspire scholars and artists globally.