Rembrandt is considered to be the greatest Dutch painter of the 17th century, and one of the greatest printmakers of all time. To celebrate his 400th birthday (on 15 July 2006), the Hunterian will display 20 of its finest Rembrandt etchings, including the striking 'Self-portrait in a Cap, Open-mouthed' of 1630.

Rembrandt's name has become synonymous with etching, and it was through his prints - cheaper and more portable than paintings - that he achieved European fame in his lifetime. The Hunterian's collection of the artist's etchings totals some 80 sheets, and among them are some fine impressions, including several from historic collections.

On display is a group of Bible subjects centred on Rembrandt's most important nocturne, 'The Angel Appearing to the Shepherds' of 1634, with its astonishing night landscape, and the heavenly flash in which the angel hovers. Also of interest is a group of genre subjects, including one of his controversial nudes, the 'Naked Woman Seated on a Mound' of 1631. There is a group of head studies and self-portraits, and a small group of landscapes, including the beautiful 'Landscape with an Obelisk', of 1650.

'20 Etchings by Rembrandt' runs from 1 April until 15 July at the Hunterian Art Gallery, 82 Hillhead Street, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ. Admission is free. Telephone 0141 330 5431.

For further information contact:
Peter Black, Curator ﾖ Email: P.Black@museum.gla.ac.uk

Peter Black (P.Black@museum.gla.ac.uk)

For images contact:
Harriet Gaston, Publicity and Marketing Manager ? Email: H.Gaston@museum.gla.ac.uk

First published: 17 March 2006