The Amsterdam Rijksmuseum has put its iconic painting The Night Watch on its digital platform, presenting what it claims to be the most detailed photograph of any artwork. The 717-gigapixel photo allows viewers to zoom in on even the smallest details, bringing the 17th-century masterpiece to life. The painting, measuring 379.5cm x 453.5cm, is a towering work that showcases Rembrandt’s mastery of light and composition. With each pixel representing five micrometres, the photo is an unprecedented level of detail.
The high-resolution image reveals the intricate cracks in Captain Frans Banninck Cocq’s pupils, made possible by the passage of time. This level of detail is expected to draw widespread interest, especially given the museum’s current closure due to coronavirus measures. The photo will also aid researchers in assessing the ageing process of the painting and determining whether further restoration work is needed.
The Night Watch painting
The Night Watch is about to undergo a significant transformation, with the painting soon to be removed from its current wooden stretcher. The rippling caused by the painting’s temporary housing in a gallery during the Rijksmuseum’s renovations from 2003-2013 has resulted in the decision to replace the stretcher. Once the painting has been restretched, it will be free from this distortion, allowing for more accurate assessment of its condition.
The painting has undergone numerous restorations over the years, with its current wooden stretcher installed in 1975. The Rijksmuseum plans to consider further restoration work once the painting has been transferred to the new stretcher. For now, art lovers can immerse themselves in the digital world of The Night Watch, enjoying the sheer scale and beauty of Rembrandt’s masterpiece at a level never before possible.
