A Red Nose Mystery in The Night Watch

Who is that flamboyantly dressed figure in red? Meet Jan van der Heede, a 17th-century Amsterdam grocer - and part-time musketeer - captured forever in Rembrandt’s legendary painting, The Night Watch. In this video, we explore the fascinating story behind the musketeer. Was he sick, sunburnt… or tipsy? What’s behind his blotchy nose?

Science uncovers how past retouching and cleaning efforts have altered his appearance. Now, conservators at the Rijksmuseum are using groundbreaking techniques to restore his original look as part of Operation Night Watch. Featuring insights from Rijksmuseum experts Katrien Keune, Anna Krekeler and Pieter Roelofs, this video takes you behind the canvas to uncover the chemistry, history, and storytelling within Rembrandt’s most famous work.

And why did Jan wear red? His bold fashion choice reveals more about his relationship status than you might expect.