Artwork

The Pancake Woman

The Pancake Woman, by Rembrandt van Rijn, ink, 1635
The Pancake Woman, by Rembrandt van Rijn, ink, 1635

The Pancake Woman is an ink print by the Baroque artist Rembrandt van Rijn. It dates from 1635 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Pancake Woman is a 1635 etching by Rembrandt van Rijn, depicting a domestic kitchen scene with a woman as the central figure, cooking pancakes with a child nearby.

Subject & Meaning

The etching portrays a moment of everyday life, emphasizing warmth and comfort through the interaction between the woman, engaged in cooking, and a child looking up at her, conveying a sense of familial intimacy.

Technique & Style

Characteristic of Baroque etching, the work employs strong contrasts and dramatic lighting, hallmarks of Rembrandt's mastery of the medium, creating depth and energy in the scene.

History & Provenance

Created in 1635, specific provenance details are not provided in the available information, highlighting only the work's creation during Rembrandt's active period in Amsterdam.

Context

Part of Rembrandt's broader output of domestic scenes, The Pancake Woman reflects 17th-century Dutch daily life interests and the artist's ability to find profoundness in mundane activities.

Legacy

As part of Rembrandt's oeuvre, the etching contributes to his enduring reputation as a versatile and expressive etcher, influencing later artists in capturing intimate, illuminated moments from life.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Rembrandt van Rijn

Artist

Rembrandt van Rijn

Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn, known mononymously as Rembrandt, was a Dutch Golden Age painter, printmaker, and draughtsman.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted The Pancake Woman?

The Pancake Woman was painted by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1635.

Where can I see The Pancake Woman?

The Pancake Woman is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is The Pancake Woman?

The Pancake Woman is associated with Baroque.

Can I buy a print of The Pancake Woman?

Museum-quality prints of The Pancake Woman are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.