Painterly Palette

The title of Rembrandt's "The Night Watch" is completely inaccurate. The painting doesn't depict a military surveillance at night, nor is it set in nighttime. Once the painting was given a good cleaning after World War II, it became clear that Rembrandt painted his scene in bright daylight, as the sunny shaft of light shows.

What is fascinating about this painting is that it is actually a commissioned portrait. Many of the figures paid for inclusion. Rembrandt's composition was revolutionary, however. Rather than a staid replica of faces, he created a highly dynamic scene, adding in extra figures for more drama.

Pantone colors, left to right: Pantone Pirate Black 19-4305, Pantone Whisper White, Pantone Fiesta 17-1564, Pantone 12-0715, Pantone 729c

****************************

The concept behind the column “Painterly Palette,” is found in my manifesto: I believe you will always choose the right paint color, if you study the color combinations chosen by great artists. Plus a little color inspiration always is fun. I use the Pantone system because it can be readily copied if you see a color you like.

Art, Color, Painterly PaletteLynn ByrneAugust 13, 2014color, Paint Colors, Pantone, Rembrandt, The Night Watch