Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn, usually referred to by his first name Rembrandt, is generally considered one of the greatest painters in the history of European Baroque art, and one of the most important painters of the Dutch School of the 17th century. Rembrandt also made engravings and drawings. He lived during what historians call the Dutch Golden Age, during which Holland's culture, science, trade and political influence reached their peak. One of the major characteristics of his work is the use of light and darkness, which attracts the eye through the play of strong contrasts. The scenes he paints are intense and lively. He is not a painter of beauty or wealth; he shows compassion and humanity, which emerge in the expression of his characters, who are sometimes indigent or worn by age. His favorite themes are portraiture as well as biblical and historical scenes.