Rembrandt van Rijn is one of the most renowned and influential painters of all time, and his works continue to captivate audiences hundreds of years after his death. From his innovative use of light and shadow to his mastery of portraiture, there are countless reasons to appreciate his art. However, there are also some surprising and lesser-known aspects of his life and career that are worth exploring. In this article, we'll take a look at 10 shocking facts about Rembrandt that may change the way you think about this iconic artist.

Rembrandt Was Not His Real Name

Rembrandt was born in Leiden, the Netherlands in 1606, and he was baptized as Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn. However, he is more commonly known by his first name alone. This was not uncommon at the time, as many Dutch people went by one name or a shortened version of their full name. However, it is still surprising to learn that the name we associate with such a famous artist was not actually his given name.

Anatomy Lesson of Dr Tulp. The painting by Rembrandt Van Rijn

He Had A Tumultuous Personal Life

Rembrandt's personal life was marked by a great deal of turmoil and tragedy. He married his first wife, Saskia van Uylenburgh, in 1634, and the couple had four children together. However, only one of their children survived infancy, and Saskia died in 1642. Rembrandt remarried in 1649, but his second wife also died young, leaving him with a young son to raise on his own.

Man in a Golden Helmet c. 1650. The painting by Rembrandt Van Rijn

He Went Bankrupt In His Later Years

Despite his success as an artist, Rembrandt struggled financially in his later years. He made some unwise investments and lived beyond his means, and in 1656 he was forced to declare bankruptcy. He was able to continue working and producing art, but he had to sell many of his possessions and even his house to pay off his debts.

The Money Changer. The painting by Rembrandt Van Rijn

Rembrandt Was A Prolific Artist

Over the course of his career, Rembrandt created an estimated 600 paintings, 300 etchings, and 2,000 drawings. This staggering output is even more impressive when you consider the level of detail and emotion that he infused into each piece. His paintings are known for their rich colors, dramatic lighting, and realistic depictions of human emotions.

Apostle Paul 1635. The painting by Rembrandt Van Rijn

He Experimented With New Techniques

Rembrandt was constantly pushing the boundaries of what was possible in art, and he was always looking for new ways to express himself. He was particularly interested in experimenting with different techniques and materials, such as using a drypoint needle to create intricate lines in his etchings or mixing pigments to create new colors. He was also one of the first artists to use impasto, a technique in which thick layers of paint are applied to create texture and depth.

Rembrandt Had A Large Studio And Many Assistants

Despite the common perception of artists as solitary figures, Rembrandt actually ran a bustling studio with many assistants and apprentices. He would create the initial sketches and compositions for his paintings, but then delegate much of the actual painting to his assistants. This allowed him to produce more work and meet the demands of his many patrons. However, it also led to some controversy, as some critics felt that his later works lacked the same level of intimacy and emotion as his earlier pieces.

Belshazzar's Feast 1635. The painting by Rembrandt Van Rijn

He Had A Deep Interest In Religion

Rembrandt was raised in a Calvinist household, and religion played a major role in his life and work. He created numerous paintings and etchings with religious themes, such as "The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Tulp" and "The Night Watch". He was also known for his portraits of biblical figures, which he painted with a sense of realism and humanity that was unusual for the time.

His Art Was Influential Even During His Lifetime

Rembrandt's innovative techniques and emotional depth made him a highly influential artist during his lifetime. He had many admirers and imitators, and his style had a profound impact on the art world of the 17th century. However, his popularity waned in the years after his death, and it was not until the 19th century that his work was rediscovered and reevaluated by critics and art historians.

Supper at Emmaus 1648. The painting by Rembrandt Van Rijn

Rembrandt's Legacy Continues To Inspire Artists Today

Despite the many years that have passed since his death, Rembrandt's art continues to inspire and captivate artists and art lovers around the world. His masterful use of light and shadow, his deep understanding of human emotion, and his innovative techniques have made him one of the most important and influential artists in history. He is a true master of his craft, and his legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

Angel and the Prophet Balaam. The painting by Rembrandt Van Rijn

His Final Painting Was Left Unfinished

Rembrandt was still working on a painting of the "Baptism of Christ" at the time of his death in 1669. The painting was left unfinished, and it remains a haunting reminder of the artist's mortality and the fleeting nature of life.

Saul and David 1655-60. The painting by Rembrandt Van Rijn

Conclusion

In conclusion, the art of oil painting reproduction allows us to delve into the extraordinary world of Rembrandt, a truly remarkable artist whose life and work continue to captivate and motivate people worldwide. Through his innovative techniques, profound emotional depth, and prolific output, Rembrandt has earned his place as one of the most significant and influential artists in history. By exploring these ten shocking facts about Rembrandt, we can gain a profound understanding and admiration for both his art and the remarkable man who created it.