Rembrandt

This is the exceptionally rich story of Rembrandt's fame and influence in Britain. No other nation has witnessed such a passionate - and sometimes eccentric - enthusiasm for Rembrandt's works. His imagery has become ubiquitous, making him one of the most recognised artists in history. In this book, some of the world's leading experts reveal how the taste for Rembrandt's paintings, drawings and prints evolved, growing into a mania that gripped collectors and art lovers across the country. This reached a fever pitch in the late 1700s, before the dawn of a new century ushered in a re-evaluation of Rembrandt's reputation and opportunities for the wider public to see his masterpieces for themselves.

The story of Rembrandt's profound and inspirational impact on the British imagination is illustrated by over 130 sumptuous works by the master himself, as well as by some of Britain's best-loved artists, including William Hogarth, James Abbott McNeill Whistler, Eduardo Paolozzi and John Bellany.

This landmark exhibition showcases major works by the legendary Dutch Master alongside those of the many British artists he inspired, such as William Hogarth, Joshua Reynolds, Henry Raeburn, David Wilkie, Jacob Epstein, John Bellany, and Frank Auerbach.

Highlights of the show include key paintings by Rembrandt drawn from British collections, such as Belshazzar’s Feast from the National Gallery in London and Girl at the Window from Dulwich Picture Gallery, as well as star paintings now overseas, such as The Mill from the National Gallery of Art in Washington DC.