The Angel Appearing to the Shepherds Third state (of three), impression made circa 1650, original plate made in 1634, on laid paper. With watermark Fool’s Cap with five-pointed collar (Hinterding catalogue, variant E.c., dated circa 1650). Annotated in pen P. Remy (Lugt 2136), and an annotation mentioning the provenance from the Collection of the Duc d’Orleans. Etching, engraving and drypoint, 25.8 x 21.3 cm (plate size) / 26.2 x 22.3 cm (sheet size) Provenance: Private collection, the Netherlands Literature: Bartsch, Hollstein 44 Note: P. Remy was a major art dealer and auctioneer in Paris, starting in 1737. After 1750, P. Remy took over Gersaint's position as the leading expert compiling the catalogues of celebrated collections of paintings, including those of Blondel de Gagny, Randon de Boisset, Duc d’Orleans and the Prince de Conti. Produced at a relatively early period in his career, this would undoubtedly have been Rembrandt's most spectacular print to date. The scene depicts how the herdsmen in Luke 2:8-20 were confronted in the middle of the night by a large winged angel, lit by the glory of God, who came to announce the birth of Christ. The composition reflects the drama of the event, and draws theatrical swirling style of contemporary Baroque painting. To create this etching, Rembrandt worked from the dark areas into the light of the foreground. Although he had painted night scenes before, this was his first attempt at duplicating the effects in etching. Please note: condition reports and additional photos are available upon request. For more information: info@aagauctioneers.com