About this artwork
Scholars have widely debated Rembrandt’s choice of either a light- or dark-skinned model for this magnificently ambiguous etching. In the 18th century, its given title changed to variations of Reclining Negress. Rembrandt did portray an African model around 1630, but it is unclear if this much-later print represented another. The stark contrast between the cavernous darkness and the bright bed linens suggests the artist’s keen interest in depicting the play of light on skin. Rembrandt’s characteristic use of a Japanese paper support further enhances the heat of the very real and very warm, naked body.
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Status
- Currently Off View
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Department
- Prints and Drawings
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Artist
- Rembrandt van Rijn
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Title
- Reclining Female Nude
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Place
- Holland (Object made in)
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Date
- 1658
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Medium
- Etching, drypoint, and engraving, on ivory Japanese paper
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Dimensions
- 81 × 158 mm (sheet trimmed to platemark)
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Credit Line
- Clarence Buckingham Collection
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Reference Number
- 1954.11
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IIIF Manifest
- https://api.artic.edu/api/v1/artworks/80079/manifest.json
Extended information about this artwork
Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email . Information about image downloads and licensing is available here.
