Rembrandt ‘Self-Portrait at the Age of 34’
The Greatest Dutch Master is spotted in Los Angeles, captivating and astounding visitors to the Norton Simon Museum
Norton Simon Museum
Through March 5, 2018
The long awaited arrival of one of Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn’s most striking self portraits has finally arrived on U.S. soil, in Pasadena specifically. Completed in 1640, Rembrandt had entered into his middle ages, evident in the affluence, self-confidence, and wisdom that he exudes in this depiction of himself. He has exited his youthful self-examination period and entered a new decade burdened with strife. The 1630s were marred with many deaths in Rembrandt’s family, which is showcased in the newly formed frown lines in his somber face and steady, melancholic gaze.
Yet the many misfortunes in his life did not hinder his outstandingly successful public career. No doubt one of Rembrandt’s favorite models was himself, exemplified in the nearly 100 renderings of his portrait in paintings, etchings, and drawings. The newly attained self portrait is added to the already magnificent Museum’s 17th Century gallery and accompanied by Simon’s previous collection of Rembrandt including the Portrait of a Bearded Man with a Wide-Brimmed Hat (1633) and Portrait of a Boy (1655-60). It is part of a loan exchange program between the Norton Simon Museum and The National Gallery, London that was established earlier this year.
nortonsimon.org
