Citation
"The Angel Appearing to the Shepherds (Rembrandt Harmensz. van Rijn) , 1990.83,” Harvard Art Museums collections online, Nov 22, 2024, https://hvrd.art/o/221183.
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Many winged cherubs float around in illuminated space in upper left corner. One adult winged figure with left arm raised in benediction stands out, looking down toward the shepherds who are scattered about along with their sheep, cattle, and dogs in various action poses. Light from the angelic scene above falls onto the shepherd area, cutting through the deep dark landscape of rocks, gnarled trees, and thick foliage that separate the heavenly realm from the earthly gathering. One man stands near the center bottom wearing a robe and hat, looking towards the viewer while shepherds are scattered about.