Final answer:
The Nightwatch was controversial because it deviated from traditional civic portraits. Rembrandt's genius was fueled by his use of light and dark illusions. He was not appreciated during his lifetime due to his unconventional style.
Step-by-step explanation:
The static figures seated around a table, Rembrandt portrayed an active scene of a militia heading out into the daylight. And the Nightwatch by Rembrandt was controversial for its time because it deviated from the traditional composition of civic portraits.
The darkness of the canvas, which gave rise to the misnomer of 'Night Watch,' also added to the controversy until it was cleaned.
Rembrandt's genius was fueled by his ability to incorporate light and dark illusions into his paintings. He used chiaroscuro, the theatrical use of light and shadow, to bring his artworks to life. His skill in representing emotions and attention to detail in biblical narrative paintings also praised him by his contemporaries.
Despite his talent, Rembrandt was not appreciated when he was alive because his unconventional use of thick, coarse strokes and his evolving style did not conform to the rigid formality of his contemporaries.
Many of his peers found his technique poorly received. However, his paintings are now recognized for their emotional resonance and are considered essential to his artistic legacy.