The Rijksmuseum said Monday it has identified a previously unknown painting by Rembrandt, using advanced scans and stylistic analysis to confirm its authenticity.
The 1633 work, Vision of Zacharias in the Temple, had been out of public view for 65 years before being submitted to the museum for study. The painting depicts the biblical scene in which Archangel Gabriel announces to the high priest Zacharias that he will have a son, John the Baptist, as indicated by light in the upper right corner.
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“Materials analysis, stylistic similarities, and the overall quality all support the conclusion that this is a genuine work by Rembrandt,” the museum said. Experts confirmed the signature, panel, and paint layers match Rembrandt’s early Amsterdam period.
Rijksmuseum director Taco Dibbits called the discovery rare, noting the work arrived after a private owner reached out without realizing its significance.
The painting is now on long-term loan and will go on public display starting Wednesday. AFP
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