Age of Rembrandt in a Global Context

Rembrandt's art defines much of the Golden Age, the seventeenth century in the Dutch Republic, often associated with sumptuous and glowing imagery of luxury goods. But as we examine the Golden Age and Rembrandt in the context of the international arena of trade and colonialization, we may find that the age was not quite so golden. As the Dutch and other European nations explored Asia and the Americas, they exploited the indigenous populations and natural resources. At the same time, foreigners in Amsterdam were regarded by Rembrandt and other artists as exotic, picturesque, and intriguing. This course examines Dutch art with respect to the global forces that shaped it, both in Holland and the rest of the world. At least one visit to the Museum of Fine Arts is required.