Old Bearded Man in a High Fur Cap by Rembrandt van Rijn

Rembrandt van Rijn
1606-1669 | Dutch

Old Bearded Man in a High Fur Cap

Etching on paper
New Hollstein Dutch 148 second state (of four)
Signed “Rembrandt" and "R" in reverse (upper left)

This highly important etching was created by the revered Dutch Old Master, Rembrandt van Rijn. Certainly the most important Dutch etcher of all time, his oeuvre includes close to 300 authenticated prints, and his innovative techniques in the medium stand without precedent. This portrait of an old man in a fur cap is exemplary of the artist's unimpeachable talent and mastery of portraiture.

Rendered in three-quarter length, Rembrandt's sitter sits peacefully for his portrait with his eyes closed and brows furrowed in contemplation. The old man wears a prominent fur cap and layers of stately fabric, indicating his wealth and distinguished social position. Fur hats were a staple of Dutch men's wardrobes by the 17th century, and this gentleman wears a particularly large example that stands tall atop his head.

Rendered in thousands of expressive lines, the quality of Rembrandt’s portrait cannot be overstated. By altering the shape, direction and strength of his lines, the artist creates astonishing distinctions between the textures of the sitter's attire, his furry fur cap and his curly beard. Rembrandt masterfully casts a deep shadow across the old man's countenance, imbuing the portrait with an emotive drama.

The son of a miller, Rembrandt van Rijn is believed to have been born in Leiden on July 15, 1606. He studied first at the Latin School and then was enrolled at the University of Leiden at the age of 14. He soon left to study art—first with a local master, Jacob van Swanenburch, and then, in Amsterdam, with Pieter Lastman, known for his historical paintings. Rembrandt was an exceptionally gifted student and mastered his art in a mere six months. Now 22 years old, he returned to Leiden and was soon so highly regarded that he was able to take students of his own.

Though known today primarily for his paintings, Rembrandt's fame spread outside the Netherlands thanks to his etchings. He made hundreds of etchings over the course of his career from 1626 until 1660, the year he was forced to sell his presses. He created etchings of a number of subjects, including self-portraits, biblical subjects, saints and allegories, and his work was avidly admired and collected, even during his lifetime.

Circa 1635

Etching: 4“ high x 4 1/2” wide (11.43 x 10.16 cm)
Frame: 20“ high x 16 1/8” wide (50.80 x 40.96 cm)

Provenance:
Ernst F. Oppermann, Berlin
Private collection, United States
Private collection
M.S. Rau, New Orleans

Literature:
Bartsch, Adam. Le Peintre-Graveur. Vol. 1. Leipzig: C.G. Boerner, 1922. No. 281
White, Christopher, and Karel Boon. Rembrandt’s Etchings: An Illustrated Critical Catalogue. Vol. 1. Amsterdam: Van Gendt, 1969. No. 281
Hollstein, F.W.H. Dutch and Flemish Etchings, Engravings and Woodcuts, ca. 1450-1700. Amsterdam: Menno Hertzberger, 1949. No. 172, Second state (of III)
Nowell-Usticke, G.W. Rembrandt's Etchings: States and Values. New York: Out of Print Books, 1967

Plate in existence at the Israel Museum, Jerusalem