What's Happening?
Recent research into Rembrandt's 1642 masterpiece 'The Night Watch' suggests that the dog depicted in the painting was inspired by an illustration from a widely available book on the temptations of the flesh, created by Adriaen van de Venne. The dog in Rembrandt's painting bears a striking resemblance to the one in Van de Venne's illustration, with further investigation revealing similarities in the chalk underdrawing. The research highlights Rembrandt's practice of drawing inspiration from existing works, a common practice among artists of his time.
Why It's Important?
This discovery sheds light on Rembrandt's creative process and the influence of other artists on his work. It underscores the importance of intertextuality in art, where artists draw inspiration from various sources to create new interpretations. The research contributes to a deeper understanding of Rembrandt's artistic techniques and the cultural exchanges that shaped his work. It also emphasizes the role of art historical research in uncovering new insights into well-known masterpieces, enriching the narrative of art history.
