The presentation in the temple: oblong print

The presentation in the temple: oblong print, created by the Dutch master Rembrandt van Rijn in 1640, is an exceptional example of the artist's mastery of graphic arts during the Dutch Golden Age. Classified simply as a print, this specific work on paper likely employed etching and possibly drypoint techniques, mediums where Rijn achieved unparalleled technical and expressive heights. The year 1640 falls within a period of great technical refinement for Rijn, evident in the sophisticated use of line density and atmospheric shadow that defines the composition.

The subject illustrates the traditional biblical narrative found in the Gospel of Luke, depicting Simeon’s recognition of the infant Christ when he is presented by Mary and Joseph at the Temple in Jerusalem. Rijn imbues the crowded temple setting with intimate, emotional intensity, focusing the viewer’s eye on the profound spiritual exchange between the aged Simeon and the child. The oblong format of the image is unusual for this theme and allows the artist to use deep shadows and strategic highlights to dramatic effect, emphasizing the contrast between the revealed light of the Christ child and the surrounding darkness of the temple interior.

This highly detailed work highlights the strong market for prints across 17th-century Europe, establishing Rijn as a preeminent printmaker alongside his immense success as a painter. The piece is part of the extensive collection of the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, which holds many of the finest graphic works by Rijn. As a historical work now firmly in the public domain, high-quality reference images and reproductions of this significant print are widely accessible globally for study and appreciation.