Definition

Proper noun: * Rembrandt Harmensz van Rijn: A renowned and influential Dutch painter, printmaker, and draughtsman of the 17th century, widely considered one of the greatest visual artists in the history of art. He is known for his mastery of light and shadow (chiaroscuro), his psychologically penetrating portraits, and his dramatic biblical and historical scenes.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The museum is hosting a major exhibition featuring works by Rembrandt Harmensz van Rijn.
  • Scholars study the techniques of Rembrandt Harmensz van Rijn to understand the Dutch Golden Age of painting.
  • His full name, Rembrandt Harmensz van Rijn, indicates he was the son of Harmen and from the town of Rijn.

Advanced Usage

• The name is often shortened to simply Rembrandt in common usage.
  • I prefer the later works of Rembrandt.
• The term Rembrandtesque is used as an adjective to describe a style reminiscent of his work, particularly the use of dramatic light.
  • The photographer achieved a Rembrandtesque quality in the portrait.

Variants and Related Words

• Rembrandt (n): The common shortened form of the artist's name.
• Rembrandtesque (adj): Resembling or in the style of Rembrandt's art.

Synonyms

• The Dutch Master: A common epithet for Rembrandt.
• Old Master: Refers to a skilled European painter from the period before 1800, a category which includes Rembrandt.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• A Rembrandt in the attic: A humorous or hopeful phrase suggesting the discovery of a hugely valuable, previously unknown masterpiece.
  • He joked that the old painting he found might be a Rembrandt in the attic.

Noun

1. influential Dutch artist (1606-1669)