Rembrandt: Colour and Illusion

Vienna is currently hosting an exhibition that brings together the works of Rembrandt van Rijn and his talented pupil Samuel van Hoogstraten for the first time. On view until 25 January 2025, this collection includes masterpieces from some of the world's most renowned museums, including the National Gallery in London, the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, the Louvre in Paris, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. Works such as the Girl in the Window (featured on the cover) and Rembrandt's 1665 self-portrait were lent by these museums.

The exhibition titled Colour and Illusion, explores the artistic relationship between Rembrandt and Hoogstraten, highlighting how the master's innovative style influenced his pupil and their era. It provides a unique opportunity to experience Rembrandt's powerful work alongside Hoogstraten's interpretations.

The theme, mainly based on fascination of illusion, invites visitors to appreciate the use of colour and both artists' illusionistic techniques. These works captivated audiences in their time and continue to engage viewers today, offering a compelling experience. Towards the middle and at the end of the exhibition visitors can experience how these artists created illusionistic paintings, through miniature building and room models. 

For those of us in Hungary, this exhibition feels particularly significant. The Museum of Fine Arts in Budapest previously hosted a Rembrandt exhibition, titled Rembrandt and the Dutch Golden Age, in collaboration with the Nationalmuseum, the Rijksmuseum, and the Kremer Collection. The exhibition featured over 170 works, including 20 by Rembrandt, alongside paintings by Vermeer and other Dutch masters. Divided into seven sections, it explored themes such as portraiture, still life, and religious art, highlighting Rembrandt's influence. 

If you're in the sister city of Budapest, this is an exhibition worth experiencing—an opportunity to engage with the work of one of history's greatest artists and his influence on those who followed.

Mate Ternovics