The Raising of Lazarus: The Larger Plate

The Raising of Lazarus: The Larger Plate by Rembrandt (Rembrandt van Rijn), dating from 1627-1637, is a monumental print that showcases the artist’s evolving mastery of intaglio techniques during the Dutch Golden Age. Executed using a combination of etching and engraving, Rembrandt created profound dramatic contrast through his meticulous handling of light and deep shadow, characteristic of the Baroque period’s focus on intense emotional expression. This particular impression is identified as the New Holl.'s seventh state of nine, indicating the artist’s extensive development and refinement of the copper plate over a decade.

The piece depicts the narrative described in the Gospel of John, capturing the intense moment where Jesus resurrects Lazarus from the grave. The composition centers on the powerful figure of Jesus performing the miracle, surrounded by numerous Men whose varied expressions of awe, confusion, and fear heighten the spiritual drama. Rembrandt includes careful details that anchor the scene, sometimes incorporating contemporary military figures or accoutrements, possibly referenced by the subject tag Swords, into the biblical setting.

This complex and large-scale print represents a high achievement in Rembrandt’s career as a graphic artist. His innovative manipulation of line and texture fundamentally changed how prints were perceived, allowing him to achieve textural depth and atmospheric effects previously unseen in the medium. The work resides in the prestigious collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where it serves as a primary example of his influential contribution to European art. High-quality prints of this seminal work are widely studied, often made accessible through public domain initiatives, ensuring broad access to Rembrandt's extensive catalog of etchings.