The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp is a seminal oil painting on canvas created by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1632. Here are some key points about the artwork:

Commission and Context

The painting was commissioned by the Amsterdam Surgeons Guild to commemorate a public anatomy lesson given by Dr. Nicolaes Tulp, who was the praelector (a position similar to a professor or lecturer) of the Amsterdam Anatomy Guild since 1628. This commission was significant for Rembrandt, as it was his first major group portrait and his first large-scale commission in Amsterdam, which he had recently moved to

Composition and Innovation

The painting is renowned for its innovative composition. Unlike traditional group portraits, Rembrandt created a dynamic scene where each figure is engaged in a different activity, adding a sense of individuality and a shared moment. The figures are arranged in a pyramid formation, with Dr. Tulp, the central figure, wearing a hat and demonstrating the flexors of the cadaver's left arm. The use of chiaroscuro, a technique emphasizing contrasts between light and dark, adds depth and drama to the scene

Anatomical Details

The painting depicts Dr. Tulp explaining the musculature of the arm to a group of seven surgeons. However, it is anatomically incorrect in that a real dissection would have started with the chest and abdominal areas, which decay more rapidly. Instead, Rembrandt chose to focus on the forearm to highlight the muscle structure. The cadaver is that of Aris Kindt (alias Adriaen Adriaanszoon), a criminal who was executed earlier on the same day

Symbolism and Artistic License

The painting includes several symbolic elements. The absence of cutting instruments and the presence of a large open textbook, likely Andreas Vesalius's 'De humani corporis fabrica' (1543), underscore the scientific and educational aspects of the scene. The face of the corpse is partially shaded, suggesting 'umbra mortis' (shadow of death), a technique Rembrandt used frequently. The composition also implies a moral message connecting criminality and sin to dissection

Significance and Impact

The Anatomy Lesson of Dr. Nicolaes Tulp marked a significant milestone in Rembrandt's career, launching him to fame and wealth. It is considered one of his early masterpieces and has influenced generations of artists. The painting's innovative composition and psychological intensity set a new standard for group portraiture and anatomical art

Signature and Date

The painting is signed 'Rembrant. f[ecit] 1632' in the top-left corner, which was a new form of signature for Rembrandt, indicating his growing artistic confidence and the beginning of his mature career.