Rembrandt Harmensz. van Rijn

A fine, rich impression of New Hollstein's fourth state (of five), before the plate was reduced at the right, with rich, black relief in the densely-etched areas. Trimmed to or just on the platemark. Apart from the numerous self-portraits and studies he produced of himself, Rembrandt frequently used acquaintances, friends, and family members as models. In some cases, the identity of the person depicted remains unclear. However, this bearded man wearing a fur cap is often interpreted as the artist’s father, the Leiden miller Harmen Gerritsz. van Rijn (c. 1568–1630). The art historian, engraver, and early cataloguer of Rembrandt’s prints, Charles Blanc, was the first to voice this conjecture. He also assumed that the work was intended as a counterpart to "The Artist’s Mother in Oriental Headgear, Half-Figure" (New Hollstein 86). However, Rembrandt repeatedly depicted various older men in his early works. Since there is too little clear evidence, it cannot be said with certainty whether the person depicted is actually his father. – Minor hinging defecs on the reverse and remnants of a former mount. Scattered foxing, otherwise in good condition.