On the occasion of the 400th anniversary of Rembrandt's birth, here is the ultimate book on Rembrandt's art and life - his work as an artist, his family, friends and patrons, his place in European culture - by one of the world's best-known writers on Dutch art. Designed to be the Rembrandt book of first resort, this complete and accessible volume will be an invaluable work of reference and vital reading for art lovers, art students and museum-goers.

Table of Contents

1. Life and Times; 2. Philosophy, Profession, Faith; 3. The Work; 4. Techniques; 5. Rembrandt's Values.

About the Author

Gary Schwartz is one of today's best-known writers on Dutch art. His earlier books on Rembrandt have sold more than a quarter of million copies worldwide, and he writes a popular column on museums and art history in a Dutch daily newspaper. As the webmaster of two highly regarded sites, he is one of the most experienced producers of art history online in the scholarly community.

Reviews

Schwartz (Rembrandt, His Life, His Paintings: A New Biography), who maintains the online art history column, "The Schwartzlist" (www.garyschwartzarthistorian.nl/schwartzlist/?id=24), created this handsome, liberally illustrated work (with 700 full-color reproductions) in celebration of the 400th anniversary of Dutch painter Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn's birth. In addition to a brief biography, he provides a complete thematic overview of key issues, materials, techniques, and people encompassing Rembrandt's world, including family members and patrons, and he treats the artist's drawings, etchings, landscape paintings, portraits, and allegorical as well as genre paintings within the context of 17th-century Holland. Though it is not footnoted, the accessible text makes evident Schwartz's expertise on his subject, as does the extensive bibliography. Schwartz sometimes departs from the prevailing wisdom, e.g., when asserting that Rembrandt's landscapes might not have been based on religion but served as an escape from personal tragedy, particularly the deaths of the artist's wife and son and the loss of his home. A basic introduction for both the novice and the art historian on a much-loved and revered artist who peered into the human soul; highly recommended for all art book collections.-Ellen Bates, New York Copyright 2007 Reed Business Information.