Rembrandt & Rembrandt

Here's a rarity: being able to put an artist's original rough sketch next to his finished painting. The subtle changes from sketch to oil painting reveal Rembrandt's mastery in turning a boring image into a portrait with psychological depth. Simply by making the subject look at us and by putting her hand to her throat, he hints that she feels slightly embarrassed at having been caught spying on her neighbours. Brilliant! The painting - newly restored - is on display in the Dulwich Picture Gallery. The sketch is one of Rembrandt Drawings at the Courtauld Institute of Art Gallery, Somerset House, London, from 22 February to 3 June 2007. Also at Somerset House and opening on 22 February is Guercino: Mind to Paper, another exhibition of old-master drawings. This one ends on 13 May 2007.