The Star of the Kings: a Night Piece

The Star of the Kings: a Night Piece is an influential print created by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1651. This remarkable work exemplifies the mastery Rijn achieved in the graphic arts, utilizing the precise lines of etching combined with the softer, richer effects resulting from a few touches of drypoint. Produced during the height of the Dutch Golden Age, this piece offers insight into the complex religious narratives favored during the 1651 to 1700 period.

The subject matter centers on the moment of the Epiphany, illustrating the arrival of the Magi guided by the celestial body implied by the title. Consistent with many of Rijn's works from this era, the composition relies heavily on dramatic lighting and shadow (chiaroscuro) to heighten the theatrical quality of the scene. The central figures are strongly illuminated, setting them against a densely shaded, chaotic background filled with onlookers and architecture. This technique effectively guides the viewer’s eye through the visual complexity toward the sacred event, a hallmark of Rijn’s narrative style.

The classification of this work as a Print is important, as the technical demands of the etching and drypoint processes allowed the artist to create numerous high-quality prints that circulated widely throughout the 17th century. The creation of such graphic art ensured that Rijn’s fame extended beyond the Netherlands.

This example of 17th-century Dutch graphic arts showcases the innovative approach Rijn brought to established religious subjects. The piece is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. Due to its significant age and historical importance, high-resolution reproductions of this masterwork are often available within the public domain, enabling broad study of art produced between 1651 to 1700.