The painting "The Jewish Bride" by Rembrandt is one of the master's last works

"The Jewish Bride" is a painting created by Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn in 1665. The depicted couple on the canvas captivates with their loving gaze and tender affection for each other. The man gently embraces the woman with one hand, placing the other on her chest. The woman's fingertips touch her companion's palm. Their heads are turned towards each other, but their gazes seem inward, as if they are completely absorbed in their own emotions. The man has a dreamy smile, while the woman appears serious, her cheeks blushing with a delicate sense of shyness. The characters exude purity and innocence. The artist pays special attention to their attire, meticulously depicting luxurious clothing in his characteristic style. Rich, shimmering shades of garments and accessories are applied with a palette knife, while the urban landscape in the background remains in semi-darkness. This technique enhances the sense of volume and liveliness, as if the couple stands next to the viewer. The combination of red, golden, and black colors lends vibrancy to the artwork, and the textured brushstrokes and shimmering tones create a romantic and somewhat intimate atmosphere.

Rembrandt. The painting The Jewish Bride, 1665

• Title of the painting: "The Jewish Bride" (Dutch: Het Joodse Bruidje).
• Artist: Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn (1606-1669).
• Year of creation: 1665.
• Dimensions: 121.5 × 166.5 cm.
• Style: Baroque.
• Genre: Portrait.
• Technique: Oil.
• Material: Canvas.
• Location: Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn is a prominent representative of the Dutch Golden Age of painting in the 17th century. Throughout his life, he created numerous works, and in his later years, he turned to subjects that explore the depth of human emotions in various stages of life. It was during this time that he painted "The Jewish Bride."

The masterpiece acquired its title in the 19th century, thanks to a Dutch collector who mistakenly believed that the canvas depicted a girl receiving a precious necklace from her father on her wedding day. However, experts now lean towards the opinion that Rembrandt portrayed a loving couple or a husband with his wife. Their embrace appears too tender and intimate, and their hands clasped in reverence and their inclined heads suggest marital relationships filled with love and care.

According to one theory, the artist portrayed the biblical figures of Isaac and Rebecca, while another suggests that he depicted his son Titus and his spouse. X-ray examination of the painting revealed the presence of additional elements that the artist later removed from the composition. In the initial version, the woman held a basket of flowers in her hand.

Rembrandt van Rijn's "The Jewish Bride" is a lyrical work imbued with love and tenderness, intriguing the viewer not only with the discrepancy between the title and the subject but also with a hint of romantic mystery surrounding the young couple.