A Tale of Two Rembrandts

In the realm of captivating revelations in the world of portraiture, let's delve into the enthralling tale of two previously undiscovered Rembrandt masterpieces.

Nestled away in a private collection, unbeknownst to scholars and art enthusiasts alike, these exceptional portraits recently made their grand debut at Christie's London. According to a report by CNN, the auction held on Thursday witnessed an extraordinary outcome, as the two Rembrandts fetched an astonishing £11.2 million ($14.3 million). This remarkable sum substantially surpassed the auction house's initial high estimate of £8 million ($10.2 million) for these remarkable works.

Dating back to the year 1635, each of these captivating portraits stands at a modest height of approximately eight inches, rendering them among the most diminutive creations ever attributed to Rembrandt. Henry Pettifer, the esteemed International Deputy Chair of Old Master paintings at Christie's, expressed his awe, stating, "I believe these portraits to be the smallest that Rembrandt ever painted, at least to our knowledge."

The unearthing of these hitherto unknown Rembrandt portraits has stirred great excitement and intrigue within the art world. Scholars and connoisseurs eagerly scrutinize these newfound gems, hoping to unlock the mysteries concealed within Rembrandt's deft brushstrokes and masterful use of light and shadow. The sudden emergence of these artworks serves as a reminder that even in the vast realm of art history, hidden treasures can still be uncovered, adding fresh layers to our understanding of an artist's oeuvre.

With their unexpected unveiling and subsequent remarkable sale, these Rembrandt portraits have ignited a fervor among art enthusiasts, collectors, and scholars alike. They offer a rare glimpse into the artist's virtuosity on a smaller scale, showcasing his ability to imbue his subjects with profound depth and emotion, even within a confined space. The significance of these newfound artworks transcends their size, leaving an indelible mark on Rembrandt's enduring legacy and providing a rich tapestry for further exploration and appreciation.

As the art world continues to evolve and unravel its secrets, the discovery of these Rembrandt portraits serves as a testament to the enduring allure and infinite possibilities that lie within the realm of art history. They stand as a testament to the inextinguishable flame of human creativity and our eternal quest to unveil and appreciate the beauty and genius of the past.

Image: Christie's sold these portraits by Rembrandt for about 14.3 million.COURTESY CHRISTIE'S/©CHRISTIE’S IMAGES LIMITED 2023