St. Matthew and The Angel (1661) by Rembrandt

St. Matthew and The Angel - Rembrandt - 1661

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Artwork Information

TitleSt. Matthew and The Angel
ArtistRembrandt
Date1661
Mediumoil,canvas
Dimensions52 x 66 cm
Art MovementBaroque
Current LocationLouvre, Paris, France

About St. Matthew and The Angel

The artwork entitled “St. Matthew and The Angel” is a creation of the esteemed artist Rembrandt, crafted in 1661. It is an oil on canvas painting that adheres to the Baroque art movement’s characteristic style, with an emphasis on dramatic intensity and rich, deep coloration. The dimensions of this religious painting are relatively modest, measuring 52 cm in height and 66 cm in width. Admirers of this piece can view it at its residence in the Louvre located in Paris, France.

The artwork depicts an elderly St. Matthew accompanied by an angelic figure. St. Matthew is portrayed with focused contemplation, his gaze potentially indicative of an inner spiritual revelation or intense concentration on the scriptures before him. His visage is comprised of rugged features and a beard, conveying wisdom and age. His attention seems divided between the text and the otherworldly guidance of the angel, whose youthful appearance contrasts with Matthew’s aged solemnity.

The angel appears as an embodiment of ethereal grace and divine inspiration, with soft features and a gentle demeanor. Placed closely behind St. Matthew, the angel intimately leans forward, suggesting a moment of communication or inspiration being imparted. The angel’s proximity to Matthew symbolizes the connection between the earthly realm of human understanding and the divine wisdom that the figure represents.

Rembrandt’s mastery of light and shadow is evident in this work, especially in the chiaroscuro technique— the strong contrast between light and dark— which is a hallmark of the Baroque period. This technique serves to enhance the three-dimensionality of the figures and emphasizes the dramatic atmosphere. The artwork’s religious genre is a clear reflection of the period’s fascination with spiritual themes, presenting a moment of transcendent encounter between the human and the divine.

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