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Lecture

Patrick Bade
Rembrandt and the Bible

Sunday 2.10.2022

Summary

Art historian Patrick Bade shows a series of images by Rembrandt (1606–1669) exploring his pursuit of the biblical subject throughout his work and how it evolved over time. Rembrandt’s religious works demonstrate his deep engagement with the Bible and his ability to convey complex themes and emotions through his art.

Patrick Bade

An image of Patrick Bade.

Patrick Bade is a historian, writer, and broadcaster. He studied at UCL and the Courtauld Institute of Art. He was a senior lecturer at Christie’s Education for many years and has worked for the Art Fund, Royal Opera House, National Gallery, and V&A. He has published on 19th- and early 20th-century paintings and historical vocal recordings. His latest book is Music Wars: 1937–1945.

I don’t think that works, because I think the Dutch saw themselves as a chosen people. And I think that they actually identified with the Jews, not with the descendants of Ishmael. Most women until the 18th century had not learned to read and write. Possibly only some very privileged. Holland was a very advanced country in many ways. So I think that quite a few Dutch women would’ve been able to read in the 17th century.

Absolutely.