Dutch Golden Age: Experts conclude painting is genuine
A painting today goes on show at Amsterdam’s Rijksmuseum that’s been recently confirmed to be by the famous Dutch Golden Age artist, Rembrandt.
Experts carefully examined the Vision of Zacharias in the Temple (1633) before concluding its’ authenticity.
Rembrandt’s colossal Night Watch canvas is already on show at the Rijksmuseum and researchers were able to compare his existing paintings to allow them to reach their conclusion.
They analysed materials and similarities in style together with themes to help them in their assessment. The work is on long-term loan to the Rijksmuseum from a private collector.
‘It’s wonderful that people can now learn more about the young Rembrandt,’ says Taco Dibbits, Director of the Rijksmuseum.
‘He created this very poignant work shortly after moving from Leiden to Amsterdam. It is a beautiful example of the unique way Rembrandt depicts stories.’
Experts explain the painting depicts a scene from the biblical story of high priest Zacharias. It shows the moment Zacharias receives a visit in the temple from the Archangel Gabriel.
The angel tells Zacharias that, despite his and his wife’s advanced age, they will have a son: John the Baptist.
Rembrandt’s Vision of Zacharias in the Temple. Image: © Kelly Schenk / Rijksmuseum
Painting examined for the first time in 65 years
The angel is not shown in the painting, but the light shining from the upper right corner heralds his arrival. Zacharias’ expression of surprise reflects his incredulity.
In 1960, the painting was excluded from Rembrandt’s oeuvre and it disappeared from public view having been privately purchased in 1961.
Fast forward to the 2020s and the current owner contacted the Rijksmuseumn – allowing the painting to be examined for the first time in 65 years.
The two-year study has revealed that all the paints used for the Vision of Zacharias in the Temple are found in other Rembrandt van Rijn works from the same period.
The painting technique and the build-up of paint layers are also comparable to other early works by Rembrandt.
High tech scans and close inspection additionally revealed compositional changes that support the authenticity of the work.
Research into the signature shows that it is original, and dendrochronological analysis of the wooden panel confirms that the date of 1633 on the painting is correct.
Breaktime News recently reported on plans to exhibit key works by George Stubbs at The National Gallery. Portrait of a Horse can be seen from 12 March to 31 May 2026.