An artwork on Galleree from Rijksmuseum.
About the artwork
Self-portrait as the Apostle Paul, Rembrandt van Rijn, 1661h 91cm × w 77cm
Rembrandt van Rijn
oil on canvas
In the soft glow of a late afternoon light, we find ourselves drifting into the world of Rembrandt, an artist in his fifties, a man who has woven narratives with every brushstroke. In this particular moment, he chooses to take on the guise of St. Paul, the steadfast apostle known for his fervent spirit and unwavering resolve. The canvas breathes life as Rembrandt characterizes Paul, skillfully showcasing the iconic symbols that distinguish this figure—the manuscript, representing knowledge and faith, cradled in his hands, while a sword, the very embodiment of both divine battle and sacrifice, peeks from beneath the folds of a heavy cloak.
As our eyes travel along the canvas, we notice the beauty of Rembrandt’s late style, a period when he began to forge a connection between his emotions and his art, layering paint like life itself—rich and textured. Observe the delicate swirls and curves within the turban, each fold creating a whisper of the past, a testament to the artist’s technique that speaks of compassion and longing. It is in these small details—the way the light caresses the textures, the shadows that evoke the depth of his years—that we begin to feel the essence of Rembrandt’s spirit.
This portrait is not just a depiction; it is a story, a conversation between artist and viewer, a bridge connecting us to the very heart of St. Paul. In this moment, we are reminded that art, much like life, thrives in its layered complexities, inviting us to see beyond the surface, to engage with the soul beneath the paint.
About the artist
The Rijksmuseum is the national museum of the Netherlands. We tell the story of 800 years of Dutch history, from 1200 to now. We showcase over 8,000 works of art, including masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Van Gogh. In addition, we organize several exhibitions per year from our own collection and with (inter) national loans. In the Rijksmuseum you get to know the greatest works of art down to the smallest details.The artwork posted on this site is through the museum's public domain/CC0 data and does not imply endorsement.
Address: Museumstraat 1, Amsterdam, Netherlands
The best place to view Rijksmuseum‘s artwork is on Galleree. Hear the story behind this work, interact with the image, discuss with people, curate your own playlists, and discover so much more from great artists and institutions alike.