Artwork
Prophetess Anna in the Temple
Prophetess Anna in the Temple is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Rembrandt van Rijn. It dates from 1649 and is held in the collection of the National Galleries Scotland.
About this work
Overview
Prophetess Anna in the Temple is a 1649 oil painting by Rembrandt van Rijn, depicting an elderly woman in a religious context, characteristic of the Dutch Golden Age.
Subject & Meaning
The painting portrays Prophetess Anna, an elderly woman, accompanied by a kneeling child, engaged with an open book in a dimly lit interior, conveying a sense of intimacy and quiet contemplation.
Technique & Style
Rembrandt employed strong chiaroscuro, with deep contrasts between light and dark, to draw attention to Anna's softly lit face and hands, creating an intimate atmosphere.
History & Provenance
Created in 1649, the painting is part of Rembrandt's diverse oeuvre of around 300 surviving paintings. It is currently held in the collection of the Scottish National Gallery.
Artist & collection
Artist
Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn, known mononymously as Rembrandt, was a Dutch Golden Age painter, printmaker, and draughtsman.
