Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • A specific historical person: Rembrandt van Rijn was a highly influential Dutch painter, printmaker, and draughtsman of the 17th century, widely considered one of the greatest visual artists in history.

Usage

• The name "Rembrandt van Rijn" is used to refer specifically to the individual artist. It functions as a proper noun and is typically not used with articles (like 'a' or 'the') when referring to the person.
• Example:
• Example:

Advanced Usage

• "A Rembrandt": When used with an indefinite article, the word "Rembrandt" (often derived from the full name) can refer to a painting or etching created by the artist.
  • Example: The auction house sold a newly authenticated Rembrandt for a record price.
• "Rembrandtesque": An adjective describing something that resembles or is characteristic of Rembrandt's style, particularly his use of chiaroscuro (strong contrasts of light and dark).
  • Example: The photographer's work has a Rembrandtesque quality.

Variants and Related Words

• Rembrandt: A common shortened form of the artist's full name.
  • Example: The exhibition focuses on Rembrandt's self-portraits.
• Rembrandt van Rijn is also known historically as Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn.

Synonyms

• The Dutch Master: A common epithet for Rembrandt van Rijn.
• Old Master: Refers to a distinguished European artist of the period before 1800, especially of the 17th and 18th centuries; Rembrandt is a quintessential example.

Related Phrases

• In the style of Rembrandt: Describing artwork that imitates the techniques or themes of Rembrandt van Rijn.
  • Example: This portrait was painted in the style of Rembrandt.
• A Rembrandt of [a field]: An idiomatic expression (metaphor) praising someone as a master or genius in a non-artistic field, due to their skill, depth, or complexity.
  • Example: The defense attorney was a Rembrandt of courtroom strategy.

Related Idioms

• To have a Rembrandt in the attic: A playful, hypothetical idiom referring to the dream of discovering an immensely valuable piece of art (specifically by Rembrandt) in one's possession. It plays on the idea of an undiscovered masterpiece.
  • Example: Every antique dealer hopes to find a Rembrandt in the attic.

Noun

1. influential Dutch artist (1606-1669)