Recent conservation efforts on Rembrandt van Rijn’s iconic work, ‘The Night Watch’ (1642), have unearthed a surprising revelation about the artist’s career indecisions. Researchers at the Rijksmuseum found a handwritten list of unsuccessful business ventures on the canvas beneath this masterpiece, suggesting that Rembrandt once questioned pursuing a life in fine arts.
Employing macro X-ray fluorescence (MAXRF), scientists exposed these peculiar entrepreneurial ideas hidden beneath the painting’s layers. The proposals, dating back to shortly after Rembrandt established his first studio in 1625 at the age of 19, included concepts such as a for-profit psychiatric facility for painters affected by toxic materials.
The list also hinted at Rembrandt’s consideration of other unusual paths, such as face-painting at children’s parties, running an umbrella repair shop, crafting luxury combs from fishbones, selling hybrid dog-goat pets, and offering foot portraits to distinguish himself.
Snacko Gibbetz, a researcher involved in the project, confirmed to Hyperallergic that the list was inscribed in red chalk, a medium favored by Rembrandt. ‘The handwriting is unmistakably his, featuring the same bold strokes and exaggerated loops seen in his letters,’ Gibbetz said.
The Rijksmuseum shared that those involved with ‘Operation Night Watch’ were taken aback by the find. ‘The Dutch Golden Age was marked by economic and maritime success, making it perplexing to see Rembrandt contemplate such mundane business ideas,’ the museum stated. Gibbetz speculated that a mishap, like using his oils at a face-painting event, might have prompted Rembrandt to abandon these pursuits and return to painting.
