The Windmill

The Windmill by Rembrandt van Rijn, dated 1641, is a masterful example of the artist’s prolific and revolutionary output in the medium of printmaking. Executed as an etching on laid paper, this work showcases Rijn’s technical ingenuity during the height of the Dutch Golden Age. While many contemporary artists relied on the strict line work of burin engraving for definition, Rijn utilized the freedom of the etching needle and acid bath to create dynamic variations in line weight and tone. The delicate texture of the laid paper, characteristic of 17th-century European materials, further enhances the atmospheric qualities of the surviving impressions of the print.

This dramatic image stands as an important document of the Dutch landscape, reflecting the economic and cultural confidence of the time. Throughout the period of 1601 to 1650, Rijn frequently experimented with atmospheric effects, often depicting familiar elements of the Netherlandish environment. Unlike some of his grander historical scenes, this piece focuses intimately on the monumental structure of the windmill, which often served as a symbol of Dutch industriousness and technological power. The low viewpoint and dramatic handling of shadow suggest the structure dominates the surrounding plain, capturing a sense of both rugged reality and subtle foreboding often associated with Rijn’s unique approach to landscape composition.

As one of the most celebrated artists of the Dutch school, Rijn’s etchings remain highly sought after by collectors and institutions worldwide. This particular work, a valuable addition to the history of graphic arts, is housed within the permanent collection of the National Gallery of Art. Because of the age and widespread distribution of these historical works, high-resolution impressions of these influential prints are frequently available in the public domain, ensuring global access to the genius of this 17th-century master.