Rembrandt van Rijn
1606-1669 | Dutch

Christ Driving the Money Changers from the Temple

Etching on paper
New Hollstein's 139, state I of IV

Among the very best of the Old Masters stands the revered Dutch artist Rembrandt van Rijn, arguably the greatest etcher in the history of art. Certainly the most important Dutch printmaker of all time, his oeuvre features close to 300 authenticated prints, and his innovative techniques in the medium are without precedent. This superb etching, entitled Christ Driving the Money Changers from the Temple, displays the artistry and detail for which Rembrandt's prints are renowned.

In this work of art, Rembrandt presents a famous religious scene—a moment of pure pandemonium. In the biblical account of this event, Christ enters a temple and is overtaken by rage at the sight of merchants and money changers conducting their business within. Rembrandt captures Christ’s reaction, actions driven by his desire to reclaim the space as a place of worship. Christ is positioned at the center of the composition, wielding ropes as a whip, having just overturned a table, causing a merchant to scramble for his coins spilling onto the floor. The scene is replete with chaos, including figures running, shouting and animals in disarray, embodying the dynamic virtuosity for which Rembrandt is renowned. Likely inspired by a similar composition from Albrecht Dürer, this depiction is a testament to Rembrandt's mastery of conveying complex narratives through his meticulous hand.

Rembrandt has enjoyed much acclaim both during his lifetime and today for his paintings and prints. Emerging in the region in the early 16th century, printmaking experienced increased popularity during Rembrandt's lifetime, when an affluent new merchant class began spending their disposable income on artworks. Among the many printmakers of the era, Rembrandt stood out as he exploited the medium to its fullest. He often utilized techniques from his paintings, such as chiaroscuro, and successfully translated them to copper plate. His fluid lines, delicate cross-hatching and subtle tonalities allowed Rembrandt to achieve the sense of atmosphere that set his works apart.

Versions of this etching reside in numerous museums, including the National Gallery of Art in Washington D.C., the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the St. Louis Museum of Art, among others.

Printed circa 1635