A Captivating Rediscovery:

Rembrandt’s Intimate Portraits Reveal Themselves

The art world was recently amazed by the appearance of a pair of Rembrandt portraits that had been hidden away in a private collection for almost two centuries. These intimate portrayals of an elderly Leiden couple provide a unique perspective of the Dutch artist’s work, depicting the couple in a refreshingly unadorned manner.

The Rediscovered Portraits

The small oval portraits date back to 1635 and depict Jan Willemsz van der Pluym, an elderly plumber, and his wife, Jaapgen Carels. Interestingly, the couple held a special place in Rembrandt’s life as they were friends of his family and also came from his hometown of Leiden in the Netherlands.

A New Perspective

Rembrandt’s commissioned works for wealthy patrons were typically grandiose. These portraits, however, offer a more intimate perspective. The portrayal of this non-affluent couple highlights Rembrandt’s exceptional ability to capture the essence of those he painted, regardless of their social standing.

The Discovery of the Portraits

Henry Pettifer, international deputy chairperson of Old Master Paintings at Christie’s, discovered the paintings that had never undergone any research or been mentioned in Rembrandt-related literature. An ancestor of the current owner had acquired the artworks at a Christie’s auction in 1824, where they were listed as Rembrandt’s work. Since then, they remained tucked away, enjoyed only by the owner’s family.

Recognizing the significance of these paintings, Christie’s initiated a thorough investigation to verify their authenticity. With the help of art experts from Amsterdam’s Rijksmuseum, they conducted scientific analysis and examined every aspect of the artwork. The findings confirmed that these were genuine Rembrandt masterpieces.

The Enduring Allure of Old Masters

The sale of these portraits not only marks a fascinating chapter in the history of Rembrandt and his art but also underscores the enduring allure of the Old Masters. Art enthusiasts and historians alike wonder what other hidden gems await discovery and what new insights they may bring to our understanding of great artists of the past.

The stunning reemergence of Rembrandt’s intimate portrayals has rekindled our fascination with the enigmatic Dutch master. These portraits serve as a reminder that treasures may reside in the most unassuming places. The question remains: how many undiscovered masterpieces might still be waiting in the shadows, yearning to be brought to light and appreciated by generations to come? Only time will tell.