The tribute money

The tribute money by Rembrandt van Rijn is a 19th-century print on paper, dating specifically between 1850 and 1906. Although the composition is attributed to the famed Dutch Master of the Baroque era, this particular artifact was executed long after Rijn’s death (1669), likely serving as a high-quality reproduction of an earlier drawing or study by the artist or his school. This work exemplifies the enduring interest in Rijn’s mastery of light and psychological drama well into the modern era.

The subject illustrates a key moment from the New Testament, where Christ is confronted by the Pharisees and Herodians regarding the payment of imperial taxes—a theological conflict known for its sharp rhetorical conclusion. Rijn was renowned for his ability to translate complex biblical narratives into intimate, focused scenes. His compositional approach typically uses strong chiaroscuro to draw attention to the central debate, emphasizing the profound moral and intellectual conflict inherent in the scripture.

This specific print is held within the extensive collection of the Rijksmuseum, which houses numerous drawings and prints related to the master and his workshop. The proliferation of such reproductive prints on paper during the 19th century allowed Rijn’s compositions to reach a wider audience globally. Today, high-resolution prints of these compositions, often entering the public domain due to their age, continue to serve as essential resources for studying the stylistic evolution of the Dutch Golden Age. The existence of later works like this highlights the lasting cultural impact of Rijn’s powerful interpretation of sacred history.