If you’ve ever learned about art history in school, then you’d probably recognize the names Dürer and Rembrandt. Recognized as two of the most influential printmakers and artists in the world, you’ll be able to view a substantial collection of their works at The Hyde Collection starting July 10.
Photo Courtesy of the Hyde Collection: Rembrandt van Rijn, Dutch, 1606-1669, Self-Portrait Wearing a Soft Cap: “The Three Moustaches,” ca. 1634, etching, 2 x 1 3/4 inches, Collection of Dr. Dorrance T. Kelly
Albert Dürer and Rembrandt van Rijn were highly respected by their contemporaries, both for their virtuosity and creativity. Dürer (1471-1528) was a talented woodblock carver and brought complexity – through intricate lines, details, and shading – to an art form commonly used for basic outline illustrations. Rembrandt (1606-1669) was exceptionally skilled at etching and drypoint, and he combined his expressive drawing style with printmaking.
Now, the two artists will be highlighted in The Hyde Collection’s newest exhibition, titled “Dürer & Rembrandt: Master Prints from the Collection of Dr. Dorrance Kelly.” The exhibition will feature 82 prints, including 29 engravings and woodcuts by Dürer and 35 etchings by Rembrandt. There will also be 18 printed works by some of their contemporaries, such as Hendrick Goudt, Aegidius Sadeler, Lucas van Leyden, plus a rare piece by Lucas Cranach.
In a press release, Museum Director Erin Coe said, “this is an unparalleled opportunity to see up close some of the finest prints by Dürer and Rembrandt that you would otherwise have to travel to New York or Boston to view.”
However, not only will visitors have the chance to view Dr. Kelly’s collection, but there will be a companion exhibition on display at the same time. Titled “The Hydes and Rembrandt,” the exhibition tells the story of Louis and Charlotte Hyde’s (the Hyde’s founders) quest to obtain a work by Rembrandt. The search for a Rembrandt was popular among American art collectors in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
On display in “The Hydes and Rembrandt” will be messages between the Hydes and their adviser William Valentiner, photographs, diaries, and documents related to their quest. The Hyde’s own Rembrandt, Christ with Arms Folded, will be featured in the Whitney-Renz Gallery.
Both exhibitions officially open on July 10, with “Dürer & Rembrandt: Master Prints from the Collection of Dr. Dorrance Kelly” in the Charles R. Wood Gallery and “The Hydes and Rembrandt” in the Whitney-Renz Gallery.
For an early look, there will be a members’ opening on July 9 at 2:00PM. Hyde Collection members are free, and admission for non-members is $20. There will be light refreshments during the reception.
If you’re interested in seeing these rare prints from Dürer and Rembrandt, then you’ll have the chance from July 10 – October 2!
