Rembrandt Harmensz. van Rijn

A very fine, rich impression of the eighth state, printed with strong platetone and visible burr on the additional curving lines of the pillow above the Child's head. In the 1650s, Rembrandt’s interest in nocturnal scenes rendered through etching was rekindled. In no fewer than eight different states of this plate, he varied the glow of the lanterns brought by the shepherds, as well as the light source behind the reading Joseph at the lower right. With each successive working stage, he gradually reduced the light, creating an increasingly concentrated focus on the essential elements of the scene through deepening darkness. While the Japan paper has shrunk, it is trimmed slightly within in the image. This finely composed and contemplative scene captures the Virgin Mary resting beside the sleeping Christ Child, while Joseph, seated nearby, remains awake, absorbed in reading and quietly watching over them. A group of shepherds — comprising men, women, and a child — has entered the stable, yet they linger at a respectful distance, as if not to disturb the sacred moment. The composition is illuminated by two subtle sources of light: a concealed fire or lamp behind Joseph, and a lantern held by the foremost shepherd. These gentle illuminations bring out selected highlights — the top edge of Joseph’s book, the Virgin’s headband and cuff, and the partially visible face of a woman peering from behind — while much of the scene is enveloped in deep shadow or soft twilight. Through this careful handling of light, Rembrandt invites the viewer to become part of the scene, aligning us with the shepherds as quiet witnesses to the divine revelation. Achieving such an effect of enveloping darkness within the medium of etching required exceptional artistic and technical command. – Paper slightly wavy. Verso in the corners with remnants of former mounting. Otherwise in very good condition.