The Standard-Bearer

The Standard-Bearer

Rembrandt was only thirty years old when he painted The Standard-Bearer in 1636, a crucial moment in his career. With this self-portrait, he put his ambitions and virtuosity on display in order to secure a place among the greatest painters in the history of art. The, in places, loose, even nonchalant brushstrokes, the deliberate scratching into the paint surface, and bravura use of light and shade are hallmarks of Rembrandt’s highly unique style.

Standard-bearers played an important role in the Eighty Years’ War, the conflict that would lead to the birth of an independent Dutch Republic. The standard bearer had to defend the banner with his life, and was therefore a symbol of strength and bravery. Art, courage and peace are thus inextricably linked in this work. Its quality and the fact that this painting marks Rembrandt’s artistic breakthrough make this painting an unparalleled masterpiece.

After nearly four centuries in private hands, The Standard-Bearer was acquired for the Netherlands in 2022. Now everyone can admire this Rembrandt self-portrait in the Rijksmuseum’s Gallery of Honour.