 | Under the title "Sordid and Sacred : The Beggars in Rembrandt's Etchings", the Knoxville Museum of Art presents between June 8 - August 5 an exhibition dedicated to some of the best and at the same time mostly unknown of the master's creations. A nmber of 35 prints have been selected by the curators, showcasing Rembrandt as one of the greatest etchers of all time. During his cariere, the artist produced around 300 prints, each of these being a masterpiece of beauty and detail. One of his most interesting series and themes was dedicated to the beggars, who the etcher regarded with a sympathetic look, presenting them in a manner which was impressive and touching. |
The organisers have chosen prints produced between 1629 - 1654, on copper, a time frame when Rembrandt was passionate about this technique and was trying to use all of it's advatages. Through the 35 works the visitors will also have the chance to understand how Rembrandt worked and prepared his etching, experimenting with inks and paper and later reworking his copper plates, to gain more visual impact.
Rembrandt Van Rijn (1606 - 1669) was one of the most important, original and prolific artists in history, and is also famous for his passion to printmaking. With more than 300 creations of this kind, he was very popular in his time. One of his favourite subject was the life of the beggars, a popular theme then, which he treated in a kind and sympathetic manner. Even in Rembrandt's religious compositions beggars were present, often as important biblical characters. |  |
Photo : knoxart.org
June 2007
