Reviving Rembrandt: Major Restoration of The Night Watch Begins at the Rijksmuseum

The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam has embarked on an unprecedented restoration of Rembrandt van Rijn’s iconic painting, The Night Watch. After five years of in-depth research utilizing advanced techniques like digital imaging and artificial intelligence, the museum has begun the intricate process of restoring the painting in what is being called "Operation Night Watch." This major restoration will take place in full public view, allowing visitors to observe the conservators’ meticulous work in real-time within the glass-enclosed space of The Night Watch Room.

"This restoration is thrilling," shared Taco Dibbits, general director of the Rijksmuseum. "As we begin to remove the varnish, layers of the painting’s rich history will come to light. It’s a unique opportunity for the public to witness the unveiling of hidden details up close."

The restoration team is starting by carefully removing the varnish applied during a restoration in 1975-76. Using microfibre cloths and cotton swabs, eight skilled conservators will gradually lift this coating, which has darkened over the years. This initial phase is the result of numerous scientific studies and testing processes, ensuring that the varnish removal is both safe and effective for a work of this importance.

The Historical Significance of The Night Watch

Painted in 1642 for Amsterdam's Arquebusiers Guild Hall, The Night Watch is widely celebrated as a masterpiece of the Dutch Golden Age. Unlike traditional group portraits, Rembrandt’s painting captures his subjects in action, with Captain Frans Banninck Cocq leading his lieutenant and guardsmen as they prepare to march. Rembrandt’s revolutionary use of light directs attention to key details, like the captain’s extended hand and the young girl—a symbolic mascot—who stands out in the background.

Though the painting’s original title is Militia Company of District II under the Command of Captain Frans Banninck Cocq, it became popularly known as The Night Watch in the 18th century. This moniker resulted from the dark varnish and accumulated dirt, which gave the impression of a night scene. As the current restoration removes the varnish, art historians and the public alike are eager to see Rembrandt's true color palette and lighting emerge.

A Masterpiece Tested by Time and Tragedy

Over the centuries, The Night Watch has endured multiple attacks and restorations. In 1911, the painting was slashed with a knife for the first time. Another knife attack occurred in 1975, leaving 12 cuts on the canvas. In 1990, an individual sprayed acid on the artwork, though quick action by a museum guard prevented serious damage by limiting the acid to the varnish layer alone. These incidents, along with the natural aging process, have led to numerous restoration efforts—over 25 treatments to date.

However, this current restoration project is by far the most comprehensive, supported by state-of-the-art technology and extensive research. Not only does it aim to preserve the painting, but it also seeks to reveal details that have been hidden for centuries. This level of restoration allows more than two million visitors each year to appreciate the artwork as Rembrandt originally intended.

With Christmas approaching, the restoration of The Night Watch offers a symbolic moment of rediscovery, aligning with the season of reflection and celebration. As conservators carefully reveal the painting’s vibrant details, they’re also preserving an important piece of Dutch heritage for generations to come.