The presentation in the temple: oblong print

The influential work, The presentation in the temple: oblong print, was created by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1640. Executed on paper, this piece exemplifies the artist's profound skill as a printmaker during the Dutch Golden Age. While the specific etching or engraving technique employed is characteristic of Rijn’s intricate graphic arts, the designation of an “oblong print” refers to its horizontal format. This orientation is unusual for the specific biblical subject but allows for a panoramic view of the crowded temple interior, demonstrating Rijn's compositional ingenuity.

The subject illustrates the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple, a key moment in the New Testament when the prophet Simeon recognizes the Messiah. Rijn centers the intimate Holy Family moment amidst a vast, dimly lit architectural space filled with spectators and religious figures. The master printmaker utilizes delicate lines and heavy cross-hatching to control the interplay of shadow and light, drawing the viewer's eye precisely to the sacred cluster of figures surrounding the infant. Unlike many of his earlier treatments of similar scenes, this print shows a maturity in composition, favoring monumental depth and emotional resonance over strictly dramatic action.

This significant print is part of the distinguished collection of the Rijksmuseum, where it serves as a primary example of Rijn’s continued innovation in graphic media. As with many works from the Dutch master’s prolific output, this image is frequently studied for its technical brilliance and narrative power. Due to its historical importance, The presentation in the temple: oblong print is often available to researchers and enthusiasts globally via public domain archives, ensuring the accessibility and longevity of Rijn’s foundational contributions to the history of prints.