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Rembrandt Van Rijn–The Artist and His Studio: A Six-Part Course with Sabry Amroussi
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Arguably the greatest painter the Low Countries have ever produced, the oeuvre of Rembrandt van Rijn is vast, both in scope, quantity, and media. In this course, we will discuss the entire span of Rembrandt's production, from paintings, drawings, and etchings, to the work by his (then famous) pupils.
Through a careful selection of key works, this course is meant as a thorough and intellectually challenging introduction to the universe of Rembrandt van Rijn. Occasionally immersing ourselves into the key works, via ultra high resolution, one will get as close to Rembrandt as possible without leaving the comfort of one's house. An expert and absolute devotee to all things Rembrandt, Sabry Amroussi will use his decades of experience with this amazing artist to lead participants through all the facets of the work of this essential painter, etcher, draughtsman, and teacher.
Lecture 1: Introducing Rembrandt, His Life and Times
In our first lecture, we will get an introduction to seventeenth-century Amsterdam and Leiden, Rembrandt’s patrons, friends, family, and network.
Lecture 2: The early Rembrandt–A Leyden Wunderkind
In our second lecture, we will follow Rembrandt’s rise to fame, culminating in The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Tulp.
Lecture 3: Highs and Lows in Amsterdam– Beyond The Nightwatch
In our third lecture, we will discuss Rembrandt's time as a superstar artist in Amsterdam, through The Nightwatch and his many (self) portraits.
Lecture 4: Etchings and Drawings
Most know Rembrandt's talent as a painter, but often forget how revolutionary he was as both an etcher and a draughtsman. This lecture seeks to explore the lesser-known side of Rembrandt’s talents through his impressive technical skills in the drawing and etching departments.
Lecture 5: The Late Rembrandt
In our fifth lecture, we will go into the psychological depths of the older Rembrandt, with paintings such as The Jewish Bride and The Syndics.
Lecture 6: Rembrandt’s Pupils and Legacy
In our final lecture, we will discuss his many, sometimes very talented pupils, and his legacy on later artists. As time allows, we will also discuss specific requests by participants.
Sabry Amroussi is an art historian and writer living and working in Amsterdam. He specializes in the art of the Dutch Golden Age, mainly in the works of Rembrandt and his school, and has a keen interest in the Jewish history of Amsterdam. He lectures and teaches on both subjects and gives art historical tours all across Europe. As a true omnivore when it comes to art, culture, and even cuisine, he has worked with and for major museums and collectors, such as the LACMA, Rijksmuseum, van Gogh Museum and the P de Boer collection in Amsterdam. As a guide for Context, he is eager to share this knowledge in real life, always with a big scoop of humor, ofter intermingling art with social life, cuisine, and history.
How does it work?
This is a six-part series held weekly and hosted on Zoom. Please check the schedule for the specific dates and times for each lecture.
Is there a reading list in advance?
Though the course is open to participants with no background on Rembrandt, there are suggested readings for further investigation. You will receive this soon after course registration.
How long are the lectures?
Each lecture is 90 minutes long with time for Q&A.
How much is the course?
The course is $210 for six lectures.
Is a recording available?
In general, our courses are not recorded. However, if you need to miss a lecture please let us know in advance and we can arrange for a recording for that session on an individual basis.
This conversation is suitable for all ages.
90 minutes, including a 30 minute Q&A.
I can only say that I will never look at a Rembrandt Painting again in the same way as I did before. It was an amazing course. He is serious, showing a profound knowledgeable and light at the same time.
This is a very thorough and interesting study of Rembrandt. I very much enjoyd learning about the man himself, and Sabry showed an enormous array of his works. The last session on his pupils was also very interesting. I came away with a much better understanding of Rembrandt, the man, and his style of painting.
Engaging, clear, comprehensive, passionate course from a standout presenter. Every talk Sabry gives is well worth attending and only leave me hungry for more.
This course has been very enriching, as well as all the others I followed with Sabry Ambroussi. I am looking forward to many more. Thank you, Sabry!
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