Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn (1606-1669) was a Dutch painter and one of the most influential artists in the history of Western art. Born in Leiden, Netherlands, he is celebrated for his mastery of light and shadow, exceptional skill in capturing human emotion, and innovative techniques in both painting and etching.

Rembrandt's art is known for its deep psychological insight and intimate portrayal of his subjects. His portraits, including the iconic "The Night Watch," reveal his exceptional ability to convey character and emotion through meticulous detail and dramatic use of light.

Throughout his career, Rembrandt's style evolved, with periods of immense success, including his time in Amsterdam, where he ran a thriving studio and painted portraits of notable figures. Toward the end of his life, however, his stardom had faded, and he faced personal and financial difficulties. When he died in 1669, he was indeed in a significantly different situation compared to his earlier years of success. He had experienced a decline in popularity, was relatively unknown, and had faced financial hardships that ultimately led to his bankruptcy. Despite these challenges, his work continued to exhibit his extraordinary talent and his ability to convey deep human emotion, solidifying his status as one of the most influential and celebrated painters in the history of art.