A masterpiece by Rembrandt will be on show in a West Cumbrian gallery for three months.
Saskia van Uylenburgh in Arcadian Costume will be on display in Whitehaven’s Beacon Museum from Saturday.
The portrait of Rembrandt’s first wife, which is nearly 400 years old, normally hangs in the National Gallery in London.
Museum bosses said it was one of the most famous paintings ever displayed in the historic Georgian town and will give visitors a rare chance to view it outside the famous metropolitan galleries.
The piece has been loaned to The Beacon by the National Gallery as part of its Masterpiece Tour – which offers just three venues outside of London the chance to host one major work from its collection each year.
The portrait was painted in 1635 when she was 23 years old and had been married to Rembrandt for a year. It is thought to offer a glimpse into the tragic personal life of the Dutch Master and his young wife.
It’s sometimes referred to as Saskia as Flora, the Roman goddess of spring and fertility. Experts believe Saskia may have been pregnant when she posed.
During the seven years of their marriage, Saskia had three children who died very young. Only the fourth child, Titus, survived into adulthood. Titus was born in 1641. Saskia died a year later and Titus in 1668, a year before his father.
Copeland’s customer and visitor experience manager, Heather Holmes, said: “We are thrilled to have this painting at the Beacon Museum. It represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see an artwork by a true Dutch master. We hope it will prompt conversation and inspire a lifelong love of art.”’
National Gallery director, Dr Gabriele Finaldi, said: The National Gallery’s pictures are for all to enjoy. We are delighted to be working closely with our partners in Whitehaven to devise engaging displays and programmes around this great painting.”
The museum is using the exhibition to involve local school pupils whose own work, inspired by the masterpiece, will go on display as part of the exhibition.
And for art lovers there are also opportunities to volunteer and help look after the painting during its visit. Volunteers are required for a number of three-hour shifts. The role could involve welcoming visitors, providing information about the artwork and answering questions. No experience is necessary as training will be provided. Anyone interested should contact the museum on 01946 592302, or email [email protected].
The Beacon Museum will host the masterpiece from September 24 to January 8.
