Jan Uytenbogaert, "The Goldweigher" 1639

Editor: We're looking at Rembrandt van Rijn's "The Goldweigher," an etching. It has this intense, almost secretive atmosphere. What do you see in this piece, beyond the obvious depiction of wealth? Curator: It’s interesting you say that! For me, it's a snapshot into 17th-century Dutch society, isn’t it? Rembrandt's really good at making you feel like you're peering into a private moment, a world of commerce and quiet contemplation. He is, after all, weighing the soul. Editor: Weighing the soul... That's a powerful thought. I hadn't considered that. Curator: Well, think about it: the balance of earthly riches with spiritual values. A potent question for the time – for all time, really, don't you think? Editor: Definitely food for thought. Thanks!