The Age of Rembrandt

In the seventeenth century a small Spanish colony on the North Sea won its independence. The northern Spanish Netherlands became Holland; and in a remarkably short time this energetic new nation rose to pre-eminence in science, trade, learning and art. It was the golden age of Holland. Suddenly there was a popular demand for painting, and Dutch artists in general concentrated on popular subjects: in this young nation, the largest market for painting was the private home. With thoroughness and objectivity the Dutch artists recorded every aspect of their world. At no time in history has the art of painting occupied so natural a rôle in the daily life of man. Although focusing on Rembrandt, the outstanding artist of his age in northern Europe, the work of the following is also shown: Jan Steen, Aelbert Cuyp, Berckheyde, Metsu, Koninck, Avercamp, Jan van der Cappelle, Gerrit Dou, Fabritius, Vermeer, Wouvermans, Gérard ter Borch, Van Hoogstraten, and Ferdinand Bol.

Director
Henry Lewes

Writer/Narrator
Edwin Mullins