Joling does not dare to say how much truth should be attached to this story. It is a great starting point for a painting, he believes.
‘Rembrandt’s dilemma’ will therefore be given the leading role in the painting to be made, the work of which started about six weeks ago. “On the canvas, Rembrandt is in a church, where he is fighting his ecclesiastical banishment before a tribunal.” His family and loved ones are supposed to be depicted around him.
On the right side is the audience, which may consist of figures who have already been depicted in other works by Rembrandt. Perhaps Frans Banninck Coqc from De Nachtwacht or the Jewish Bride will appear soon. The canvas must also refer to Emmen. “The windows in this work are the same as those in the Grote Kerk in Emmen.”
Perhaps well-known residents of Emmen will get a place on the canvas. “Perhaps you will soon find Mayor Eric van Oosterhout among the spectators,” adds project leader Fokke Wester.
The canvas is not bound by historical correctness, so the makers can go in all directions in terms of imagination. On the other hand, as with De Nachtwacht, no example can be followed. Wester: “Yes, we have taken a completely new path. We are really going a step further by stepping into his shoes now.”
The canvas is planned to be completed by early 2025. During the work, the savanna stable will be open to the public who want to follow the progress.
It is not yet known what will happen to the canvas after the realization. Joling: “Who knows, we might even get a call from the Rijksmuseum.”