Rembrandt & The 17th Century Dutch Masters

So vast is the Dutch collection of the Hermitage that one could trace this art's history solely from the works therein. The 17th Century saw a decline in patronage of the arts by church and state. Private collectors filled the void, and subject matter was changed to suit the new patrons who wanted portraits, landscapes, still-lifes, and genre paintings for their homes. We are also shown a selection of Rembrandt's work, outlining his movement towards a more Classical style.