Artwork

Old Man in Meditation, Leaning on a Book

Old Man in Meditation, Leaning on a Book, by Rembrandt van Rijn, ink, 1645
Old Man in Meditation, Leaning on a Book, by Rembrandt van Rijn, ink, 1645

Old Man in Meditation, Leaning on a Book is an ink print by the Baroque artist Rembrandt van Rijn. It dates from 1645 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Old Man in Meditation, Leaning on a Book is an etching and drypoint print created by Rembrandt van Rijn around 1645.

Subject & Meaning

The print depicts an elderly man resting on a book, his face softly illuminated by a single light source, conveying a sense of contemplation.

Technique & Style

Rembrandt employed drypoint technique, scratching lines into the metal plate to achieve rich, velvety shadows, creating a quiet yet introspective atmosphere.

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 Old Man in Meditation, Leaning on a Book?

Old Man in Meditation, Leaning on a Book was painted by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1645.

Where can I see Old Man in Meditation, Leaning on a Book?

Old Man in Meditation, Leaning on a Book is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Old Man in Meditation, Leaning on a Book?

Old Man in Meditation, Leaning on a Book is associated with Baroque.

Can I buy a print of Old Man in Meditation, Leaning on a Book?

Museum-quality prints of Old Man in Meditation, Leaning on a Book are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.