Rembrandt van Rijn (1606-1669) is known for his vivid interpretation of themes from the Hebrew Bible. His reputation as a painter of histories, based on pictorial and literary sources, was formed early in his career. Male figures from the Bible such as Moses, Abraham or Jeremiah are represented as heroic protagonists. Female figures, essential to the Bible and the narrative of ancient Israel, are prominently depicted in various roles: as mothers and wives or lovers of patriarchs, heroes and kings. Reflecting moralistic attitudes in art of the time, Rembrandt often portrayed these women in the context of corrupting influence or precipitating fatal events. Yet in the master’s late depictions of biblical histories, we discover a deep understanding of human nature, especially noticed in his late portrayals of biblical heroines.

Dr. Anat Gilboa is an art historian, specializing in early modern art, Jewish and Israeli visual culture. She has taught at universities in Israel, Canada and the US. Her research has resulted in a book and in various publications in American and European journals and conferences.

This event is presented by the Center for Jewish Studies, with cosponsorship by the David B. Gold Foundation.