Simon Schama's Rembrandt PT 1

Rembrandt's "The fur Merchant" is referred to as the business man's hero because of the detail in his characteristics. He is depicted as strong, solid, thoughtful, but weary man. Which may usually be the characteristics of a decent hard working man.  

 

The mood in the "83 year old women" is very dreary and somewhat somber. Rembrandt uses soft white and dark colors to create a bit of coldness in my opinion. The women's eyes are rough and looked troubled as if she is living out the rest of her days waiting to die.

In Rembrandt's Samson and Delilah I believe there is a sense of tenderness and weakness shown. Although Delilah is responsible to Samson's demise she still seems to be holding him protectively. Samson is also fully dressed as opposed to being shown naked and buff which gives him a more human image rather then a  strong warrior.