What is the story about?
What's Happening?
A curator at Amsterdam's Rijksmuseum discovered that the dog in Rembrandt's famous painting 'Night Watch' is a near-identical copy of a dog from a 1619 drawing by Adriaen van de Venne. This revelation was made during the ongoing restoration of the painting, known as 'Operation Night Watch.' The discovery adds a new layer to the understanding of Rembrandt's work, showing that even renowned artists like him drew inspiration from their contemporaries.
Why It's Important?
This finding highlights the interconnectedness of artists during the Dutch Golden Age and the practice of borrowing elements from each other's work. It challenges the perception of originality in art and underscores the collaborative nature of artistic creation. The discovery also enriches the narrative of 'Night Watch,' offering art historians and enthusiasts new insights into Rembrandt's creative process and the influences that shaped his masterpieces.
What's Next?
The Rijksmuseum will continue its extensive restoration and study of 'Night Watch,' potentially uncovering more insights into Rembrandt's techniques and influences. This discovery may encourage further research into other artworks from the period, examining the extent of shared motifs and inspirations among artists of the time.
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