Rembrandt Harmensz. van Rijn 1606 – 1669

St Matthew

oil on canvas (96 × 81 cm) — 1661 Museum Musée du Louvre, Paris

Rembrandt Harmensz. van Rijn biography

This work is linked to Matthew 1:1

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Tags: Matthew

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St Matthew is often depicted with an angel-like boy. Contrary to the other evangelists his attribute is not an animal but a human being. That is because his gospel begins with a list of fathers and sons, Jesus' family tree.

Rembrandt has the boy whisper something in Matthew's ear. Perhaps the apostle was short of inspiration while writing his gospel. The boy resembles Rembrandt's son Titus.

This is one of five portraits of apostles Rembrandt made in 1661. It is also known as St Matthew and the Angel.

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