Rembrandt Made His Own Gold Paint for The Night Watch
- Researchers at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam discovered how Rembrandt created a realistic gold color for The Night Watch.
- Chemistry methods were used to analyze the pigments mixed by Rembrandt in the painting.
- The revelation sheds light on the artistic techniques of the famous Dutch painter.
In a significant revelation regarding Rembrandt's iconic painting "The Night Watch," researchers from the Rijksmuseum and the University of Amsterdam have unveiled the artist's innovative techniques for achieving a striking gold effect in the attire of one of the central figures. The meticulous gold stitching, enhanced by light reflection, has been the focus of a detailed study that sheds light on Rembrandt's artistic methods. Utilizing advanced microscopy, the team discovered that the so-called "gold" paint was composed of distinct specks of yellow and orange pigments. A chemical analysis identified these pigments as two unusual arsenic sulfide components: pararealgar, which appears yellow, and semi-amorphous pararealgar, which presents as orange-red. This finding is particularly intriguing, as pararealgar is typically associated with the aging process of paintings, raising questions about its intentional use in this masterpiece. The combination of yellow and orange pararealgar in "The Night Watch" suggests a deliberate artistic choice rather than a result of deterioration, challenging previous assumptions about the painting's composition. This discovery is part of a broader research initiative that has been ongoing at the Rijksmuseum for several years, aimed at deepening the understanding of Rembrandt's techniques and materials. The museum has actively engaged the public by sharing updates on the research through its website and gallery, fostering a community of art enthusiasts eager to learn more about the intricacies of this celebrated work.