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Artwork

Sheet of Studies including Head of the Artist, a Beggar Couple, Heads of an Old Man and Old Woman

Rembrandt van Rijn , 1632

Sheet of Studies including Head of the Artist, a Beggar Couple, Heads of an Old Man and Old Woman, by Rembrandt van Rijn, ink, 1632
Sheet of Studies including Head of the Artist, a Beggar Couple, Heads of an Old Man and Old Woman, by Rembrandt van Rijn, ink, 1632

Sheet of Studies including Head of the Artist, a Beggar Couple, Heads of an Old Man and Old Woman is an ink print by the Baroque artist Rembrandt van Rijn. It dates from 1632 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:recto: none; verso: in graphite at lower center in later hand: B. 363, [indecipherable] II, H.90 II / Coll. Rudge [?]
Markings
Marked:recto: none; verso: Lessing J. Rosenwald and National Gallery of Art

About this work

Overview

This etching on laid paper, dated circa 1632, presents a compilation of four distinct studies on a single sheet, characteristic of Rembrandt van Rijn's exploratory artistic process.

Subject & Meaning

The sheet features a diverse array of subjects: a possible self-portrait of the artist with dark hair turned away, a pair of beggars (one hunched, the other leaning on a stick), and two contrasting facial studies of an old man and a younger individual. These disparate elements may suggest explorations of identity, poverty, and the human condition.

Technique & Style

Executed in etching, the work showcases Rembrandt's mastery of the medium through varied line weights and textures, from the dense, dark rendering of the artist's head to the sharper, more defined lines of the older faces. The overall impression is one of rapid, spontaneous execution, with visible smudges and faint marks underscoring its preliminary nature.

History & Provenance

Created around 1632, this etching reflects Rembrandt's active period of experimentation with the medium during the early 17th century. Specific details on its provenance are not provided in the available information.

Context

This work can be contextualized within Rembrandt's broader practice of using etching for both finished works and preparatory studies. It also touches on themes common in Dutch Golden Age art, including the depiction of everyday life and the exploration of human physiology.

Legacy

As part of Rembrandt's oeuvre, this etching contributes to the artist's reputation for innovative etching techniques and his profound exploration of the human figure. It remains a valuable example of his creative process and artistic experimentation.

Sheet of Studies with the Head of the Artist, a Beggar Man, and Woman and Child
Sheet of Studies with the Head of the Artist, a Beggar Man, and Woman and Child, Rembrandt van Rijn

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.

MORE BY REMBRANDT VAN RIJN

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.In the collection of National Gallery of Art. Compiled & edited by , Editor & Founder.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Sheet of Studies including Head of the Artist, a Beggar Couple, Heads of an Old Man and Old Woman?

Sheet of Studies including Head of the Artist, a Beggar Couple, Heads of an Old Man and Old Woman was painted by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1632.

Where can I see Sheet of Studies including Head of the Artist, a Beggar Couple, Heads of an Old Man and Old Woman?

Sheet of Studies including Head of the Artist, a Beggar Couple, Heads of an Old Man and Old Woman is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Sheet of Studies including Head of the Artist, a Beggar Couple, Heads of an Old Man and Old Woman?

Sheet of Studies including Head of the Artist, a Beggar Couple, Heads of an Old Man and Old Woman is associated with Baroque.

Can I buy a print of Sheet of Studies including Head of the Artist, a Beggar Couple, Heads of an Old Man and Old Woman?

Museum-quality prints of Sheet of Studies including Head of the Artist, a Beggar Couple, Heads of an Old Man and Old Woman are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.