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Researchers examine the back of Rembrandt's famous painting “The Night Watch” in the Rijksmuseum - and visitors watch it
Photo:
Robin Van Lonkhuijsen / dpa
Art fans have the unique chance to see Rembrandt's famous painting "The Night Watch" from behind.
In the last phase of the great investigation of the picture, it was hung up and placed on a stand, as announced by the Amsterdam Rijksmuseum.
The "Operation Night Watch" is the most extensive investigation of Rembrandt's masterpiece to date and has been running in front of the public in the museum since summer 2019.
The researchers are currently examining the reverse side of the painting.
You first check whether the frame still provides support.
Then the lowest layers of paint are examined with scanners and microscopes.
The canvas is attached to a wooden frame.
According to information from the museum, this is not the original canvas.
As with many paintings from the 17th century, this was later reinforced from behind.
On the Night Watch, it happened in 1975 after a mentally ill person tried to destroy the painting with a knife.
Rembrandt (1606-1669) completed the picture in 1642.
It is a rare opportunity for both the investigators and the public, says museum director Taco Dibbits: "As soon as a picture has been taken off the wall and taken out of the frame, it suddenly looks very vulnerable."
The painting is to be hung back on November 23 - then the front can be seen again.
sak / dpa
