The Stoning of Saint Stephen

The Stoning of Saint Stephen is a powerful etching created by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1635, demonstrating the artist’s early mastery of printmaking. Produced during a prolific phase in his development, this work marks a significant moment in Rijn's career, showcasing his technical versatility and his frequent engagement with biblical themes, which was unusual for many contemporary Dutch artists.

This print belongs to the vital artistic period spanning 1601 to 1650, commonly known as the Dutch Golden Age. Rijn uses the dramatic potential of the etching medium to render the tragic climax of Saint Stephen’s martyrdom, as recorded in the Book of Acts. Stephen, the first Christian martyr, is shown overwhelmed by the angry crowd gathered to execute him by throwing stones.

Rijn’s treatment of the light and shadow in this piece is crucial, utilizing sharp, dense cross-hatching typical of etching to achieve high contrast. This technique serves to emphasize the dramatic terror of the public execution while illuminating Stephen’s spiritual resolve in the face of death. Unlike the grand scale of history paintings, Rijn utilizes the portable format of prints to bring this monumental religious narrative to a wider audience. The ability to circulate prints widely allowed Rijn to establish an international reputation beyond the specific market pressures of the Dutch art scene.

This powerful example of early Baroque religious drama is classified as a print and remains a significant piece in the genre of Dutch art. The work is currently housed in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.