Artwork

Portrait of a Young Bachelor

Portrait of a Young Bachelor, by Rembrandt van Rijn, oil, 1634
Portrait of a Young Bachelor, by Rembrandt van Rijn, oil, 1634

Portrait of a Young Bachelor is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Rembrandt van Rijn. It dates from 1634 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1634, this oil painting by Rembrandt van Rijn belongs to the Dutch Golden Age. It depicts a solitary male figure and is part of the State Hermitage Museum’s holdings.

Subject & Meaning

The sitter is presented in a dark oval frame, wearing a broad black hat edged with a silver band and a lace collar that frames his face. His expression is sober, his short mustache and lightly curled hair suggesting a young bachelor’s modest confidence.

Technique & Style

Rembrandt employs a stark contrast between the dark background and the illuminated face, a hallmark of his chiaroscuro approach. The lace collar is rendered with meticulous attention to the minute folds, giving it a tactile, almost three‑dimensional quality.

History & Provenance

The work entered the collection of the State Hermitage Museum, where it remains on display. It is one of roughly three hundred paintings attributed to Rembrandt, who also produced numerous etchings and drawings throughout his career.

Portrait of a Young Man Holding a Glove
Portrait of a Young Man Holding a Glove, Frans Hals

Artist & collection

Portrait of Rembrandt van Rijn

Artist

Rembrandt van Rijn

Rembrandt Harmenszoon van Rijn, known mononymously as Rembrandt, was a Dutch Golden Age painter, printmaker, and draughtsman.

Hermitage Museum

Museum

Hermitage Museum

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Hermitage Museum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Portrait of a Young Bachelor?

Portrait of a Young Bachelor was painted by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1634.

Where can I see Portrait of a Young Bachelor?

Portrait of a Young Bachelor is held by Hermitage Museum.

What movement is Portrait of a Young Bachelor?

Portrait of a Young Bachelor is associated with Dutch Golden Age.