Rembrandt HARMENSZOON VAN RIJN b. July 15, 1606, Leiden, Neth.d. Oct. 4, 1669, Amsterdam, Dutch painter, draftsman, and etcher of the 17th century, a giant in the history of art. His paintings are characterized by luxuriant brushwork, rich colour, and a mastery of chiaroscuro. Numerous portraits and selfportraits exhibit a profound penetration of character. His drawings constitute a vivid record of contemporary Amsterdam life. The greatest artist of the Dutch school, he was a master of light and shadow whose paintings, drawings, and etchings made him a giant in the history of art.

Website: http://www.ibiblio.org/wm/paint/auth/rembrandt/