The National Gallery, exterior view The National Gallery, London. Photo: Philip Sayer.

LONDON, ENGLAND - 2006 marks the 400th anniversary of the birth of Rembrandt - the greatest Dutch 17th-century painter. The National Gallery is fortunate to have one of the most important and comprehensive collections of his paintings, and will be celebrating this milestone in a number of ways that highlight the artist's key place in the Gallery's collection.

Display - Central to this is an enhanced display of Rembrandt's work in Rooms 23 and 24. This display will run from mid-June until the end of the year, and will include all of Rembrandt's paintings in the Gallery's collection, alongside works by his followers and pupils.

Trail - An interpretive trail has been specially designed to guide visitors through the display. This will enable visitors to learn more about Rembrandt's life and work and make their own responses to the paintings. The trail will be available in the Rembrandt Rooms and at the Information Desks. It is also available as a special feature on this website and will be downloadable as an audio trail for use on MP3 players.

'Art in the Making: Rembrandt' - Publication of a new edition of 'Art in the Making: Rembrandt' coincides with the birthday celebrations. First published in 1988, this revised and much expanded catalogue takes into account the most up-to-date research into Rembrandt's materials and technique, and is essential and informative reading for art lovers and experts alike. The book is now available from National Gallery Shops.

Events - Finally, a programme of special events in the Gallery is planned throughout July - Rembrandt's birthday month - including a free screening of Alexander Korda's 1936 biopic 'Rembrandt'

Source: artdaily.com