Samuel van Hoogstraten: Rembrandt’s exceptional pupil and a masterful illusionist

In collaboration with Rembrandt House Museum.

Learning from Rembrandt

Between the ages of 15 and 20, Samuel van Hoogstraten studied painting and drawing under Rembrandt. He lived in the student studio with three other pupils shortly after Rembrandt’s ‘The Night Watch’ was completed. Here, he learned how to captivate the viewer’s gaze by focusing on a single figure and using selective colour application. It was also where he developed his mastery of illusionism—visual trickery that would become his hallmark. 

World-famous, yet forgotten

Samuel achieved international acclaim for his extraordinary paintings. He spent significant time in Vienna and London, earning a gold medal of honour from the Emperor of Vienna—a prize he cherished. One of his standout works depicted the imperial palace, complete with a tiny, functioning clock in one of its towers. While the painting still exists, the clock, unfortunately, has been lost. 

Eventually, Samuel returned to his hometown of Dordrecht, where he lived the life of a celebrated artist and authored an important book on painting. Despite international fame during his lifetime, his legacy faded after his death as other art styles came into vogue—a common fate for many artists. 

Back in full glory at Rembrandt House

Now, Samuel van Hoogstraten returns to the spotlight in full glory at the Rembrandt House Museum. Over 50 of his works, showcasing his incredible talent for visual deception, are on display. This first major solo exhibition combines masterpieces from institutions such as Musée du Louvre, the Art Institute of Chicago, and Dordrechts Museum, offering a unique opportunity to rediscover his genius. 

Unmissable highlights

In an era when editing images wasn’t possible, Samuel astounded viewers with his ability to deceive the eye using only paint and brush. The exhibition features many exceptional works that highlight his skills. For instance, his self-portrait demonstrates all the techniques he learned from Rembrandt—an impressive feat for an 18-year-old. 

Pay close attention to the intricate details in his paintings, like the bulletin board filled with letters and trinkets or the old man peering out of a window in Old Man at the Window. Doesn’t it appear as if he’s emerging from the frame? Look closer—it’s just an illusion. On the stone windowsill, a tiny bottle seems so real you feel as if you could slip it into your bag. 

Step inside a masterpiece

One of the 17th century’s most remarkable Dutch inventions is the ‘perspective box,’ a cabinet-like construction that reveals a complete image only when viewed from a specific angle. Samuel van Hoogstraten painted one of these perspective boxes, which remains one of the best-preserved examples in the world. Now, during the exhibition, you can step into a life-sized version of it. Witness the complexity of this ingenious creation up close and let it amaze you. 

Extra tips

• After exploring all 50 works, the exhibition offers a mini course where you can try your hand at uncovering the secrets behind Van Hoogstraten’s visual illusions. 

• The exhibition is perfect for families with children (ages 8 and up). During the Easter and May school holidays, special painting workshops titled ‘Deception for Families’ will provide a fun and interactive way to engage with van Hoogstraten’s art.  

The Illusionist. Samuel van Hoogstraten | 1 February – 4 May | Rembrandt House Museum