From the website of the Rembrandt 400 Foundation
The exhibition Rembrandt’s mother, myth and reality explores the mystery around the old woman reading the Bible. Rembrandt has portrayed this woman tenderly more than once. As early as the 17th century she was thought to be Rembrandt’s mother, miller’s wife Neeltje van Zuydtbroeck. But is she really his mother? After all, both Rembrandt’s friend Jan Lievens and his apprentice Gerrit Dou portrayed the same woman in some of their paintings.
Myth or reality
During the 19th century a veritable myth was created around Rembrandt’s family. Scientists identified numerous figures in his work as his father, mother, sister Liesbeth or uncle Adriaan. Myth or reality? This is the issue that this exhibition addresses.
Related events
Rembrandt 400
2006 marks the 400th anniversary of the birth of Rembrandt van Rijn in Leiden. His hometown is celebrating the occasion with lots of activities. Throughout the year, Stedelijk Museum De Lakenhal is organizing three special Rembrandt exhibitions, supplemented by an introductory presentation about his life and work in Leiden and expositions of modern artists who have been inspired by Rembrandt.
Rembrandt’s mother (16 December 2005-19 March 2006)
Rembrandt the narrator: etchings from the Frits Lugt Collection (13 April-3 September 2006)
Rembrandt’s landscapes (6 October 2006-7 January 2007)