Dutch Golden Age · 1633–1659

Willem DrostMuseum

Explore the complete digital catalog of 31 confirmed paintings by Rembrandt's most talented pupil — from early biblical masterworks in Amsterdam to the tenebrist canvases of Venice.

Six masterworks from Drost's brief but brilliant career, spanning Amsterdam to Venice

The Vision of Daniel
Biblical and Historical PaintingsWD-001

The Vision of Daniel

1650 · 98 × 119 cm

An early masterwork depicting the prophet Daniel receiving a divine vision. The dramatic chiaroscuro and emotional intensity reveal Drost's deep understanding of Rembrandt's techniques while hinting at his own developing style.

Ruth and Naomi on the road to Bethlehem
Biblical and Historical PaintingsWD-002

Ruth and Naomi on the road to Bethlehem

c. 1651 · 77 × 65 cm

A tender biblical scene showing Ruth and Naomi embracing on the road to Bethlehem. The intimate composition focuses on the emotional bond between the two women.

Timothy and Lois
Biblical and Historical PaintingsWD-003

Timothy and Lois

c. 1650s · 117 × 89 cm

Depicting the biblical scene of Timothy with his grandmother Lois (also known as "The Prophetess Anna Instructing a Child"). The intergenerational relationship is rendered with sensitivity and warmth. For two centuries this was considered one of the Hermitage's best Rembrandts.

Bathsheba with King David's Letter
Biblical and Historical PaintingsWD-005

Bathsheba with King David's Letter

1654 · 103 × 87 cm

Drost's most celebrated work, depicting Bathsheba holding King David's letter. The painting is remarkable for its psychological complexity and masterful handling of light and texture.

Mercury and Argus
Biblical and Historical PaintingsWD-009

Mercury and Argus

c. 1659 · 118 × 153 cm

A classical mythological scene depicting Mercury lulling Argus to sleep with his flute. This is one of Drost's few known mythological subjects.

Self Portrait of the Artist
PortraitsWD-010

Self Portrait of the Artist

1652 · 65 × 53 cm

An early self-portrait showing the young artist at approximately 19 years of age. The direct gaze and confident handling reveal Drost's early artistic ambition.

31 Confirmed Works
17 Debated Works
9 Questionable
57 Total Catalog

Explore the Museum

Dive into the world of one of the Dutch Golden Age's most enigmatic painters

Join the Research

Drost's oeuvre is still being discovered. Works misattributed to Rembrandt, Giorgione, and others continue to be recognized as his. The museum's research program tracks new attributions, auction results, and scholarly publications.