Artwork

Man in a Coat and Fur Cap Leaning against a Bank

Man in a Coat and Fur Cap Leaning against a Bank, by Rembrandt van Rijn, ink, 1630
Man in a Coat and Fur Cap Leaning against a Bank, by Rembrandt van Rijn, ink, 1630

Man in a Coat and Fur Cap Leaning against a Bank is an ink print by the Baroque artist Rembrandt van Rijn. It dates from 1630 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. Rembrandt’s etching, dated around 1630, portrays a solitary figure leaning against a bank.

About this work

Overview

Rembrandt’s etching, dated around 1630, portrays a solitary figure leaning against a bank. The subject is clothed in a long coat and a fur‑trimmed cap, his beard and moustache prominent, and his gaze turned slightly to the right. The composition captures a moment of quiet repose, the figure’s posture suggesting a brief pause in an everyday setting.

Subject & Meaning

The work focuses on an anonymous man, rendered with careful attention to his attire and posture. By positioning the figure against a bank, a likely reference to a riverbank or a financial counter, Rembrandt invites contemplation of the individual’s relationship to his environment, hinting at themes of solitude and contemplation within a public space.

Technique & Style

Executed in etching, the image relies on bold, thick lines and deep, layered shading to create a sense of volume. Rembrandt’s handling of light and shadow accentuates the folds of the coat and the texture of the fur cap, while the contrast between illuminated areas and dark recesses gives the scene a tangible depth.

History & Provenance

Created in the early 1630s, the print belongs to Rembrandt’s prolific period of graphic work. It was produced as part of his series of figure studies, which were widely circulated among collectors and fellow artists during his lifetime, contributing to his reputation as a master of the etching medium.

Context

The etching reflects the Dutch Golden Age’s interest in realistic portraiture and everyday life. Rembrandt’s focus on a single, unnamed individual aligns with contemporary trends that valued the observation of ordinary people, while his technical innovations in printmaking set new standards for tonal richness.

Snub-Nosed Man in a Cap
Snub-Nosed Man in a Cap, Dutch 17th Century

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.

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

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Man in a Coat and Fur Cap Leaning against a Bank?

Man in a Coat and Fur Cap Leaning against a Bank was painted by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1630.

Where can I see Man in a Coat and Fur Cap Leaning against a Bank?

Man in a Coat and Fur Cap Leaning against a Bank is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Man in a Coat and Fur Cap Leaning against a Bank?

Man in a Coat and Fur Cap Leaning against a Bank is associated with Baroque.

Can I buy a print of Man in a Coat and Fur Cap Leaning against a Bank?

Museum-quality prints of Man in a Coat and Fur Cap Leaning against a Bank are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.