The Entombment

The Entombment by Rembrandt van Rijn, dated 1654, is a powerful example of the master’s proficiency in printmaking. Created on paper, this piece demonstrates Rijn’s evolving technical mastery, likely employing a combination of etching and drypoint to achieve the dramatic light and shadow effects characteristic of his mature style. The subject, drawn from the New Testament, depicts the solemn moment when Christ’s body is lowered into the rock-hewn tomb, surrounded by mourners and attendant figures.

In this composition, Rijn uses intense chiaroscuro to draw the viewer’s attention toward the central action, illuminating the lifeless form of Christ against the deep, encompassing darkness of the cave interior. The emotionally charged scene emphasizes the grief of the Virgin Mary and the disciples. Unlike some of his earlier, more finely detailed prints, this 1654 work showcases a freer, more expressive handling of line, emphasizing mood and spiritual depth over meticulous realism. Rijn produced hundreds of influential prints during his career, and his ability to exploit the expressive qualities of the copper plate established him as a pioneer in the medium.

As a crucial depiction of a major biblical narrative, this piece serves as an important record of religious iconography during the Dutch Golden Age. The work is held within the renowned collection of the Rijksmuseum, contributing to their extensive holdings of 17th-century Dutch art. Due to its age and cultural significance, high-quality images of this masterpiece are often available to the public through digitized collections, reflecting its status as a widely studied work in the public domain.