REMBRANDT HARMENSZ. VAN RIJN

Jan Lutma, Goldsmith (B., Holl. 276; H. 290; BB. 56-C)

Details

REMBRANDT HARMENSZ. VAN RIJN
Jan Lutma, Goldsmith (B., Holl. 276; H. 290; BB. 56-C)
etching and drypoint, on very fine laid paper, without watermark, backed with Japan, 1656, first state (of three), a very fine, atmospheric impression, the considerable burr on Lutma's robe and the dense hatching surrounding him in powerful contrast to the glimmering white of the blank wall against which he is placed, with narrow margins, a few tiny flecks of sepia chalk (?) to the right of the chair, a collector's inscription (?) showing through from the reverse at the top right corner, otherwise in excellent condition
P. 7¾ x 5¾in. (197 x 145mm.)

Lot Essay

As in the Portrait of Thomas Haaringh (B. 274) (See Lot 79), Jan Lutma is a study of introspection and ageing. Although portrayed with his tools and an example of his own work, the viewer's concentration is drawn to the features of Lutma himself.

The quiet character of the face is emphasized on the shadow cast on it's right side which is in strong contrast to the blank source of light which comes from behind and above him to the right. In the second state, this open quality is altered by the introduction of a window setting.