Artwork

The Artist's Mother in a Cloth Headdress, Looking Down

The Artist's Mother in a Cloth Headdress, Looking Down, by Rembrandt van Rijn, ink, 1633
The Artist's Mother in a Cloth Headdress, Looking Down, by Rembrandt van Rijn, ink, 1633

The Artist's Mother in a Cloth Headdress, Looking Down is an ink print by the Baroque artist Rembrandt van Rijn. It dates from 1633 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

The Artist's Mother in a Cloth Headdress, Looking Down is an etching by Rembrandt van Rijn, created in 1633. It is a print that showcases the artist's skill with the medium.

Subject & Meaning

The etching depicts the artist's mother in profile, her face calm and introspective as she looks downward. Her hair is covered by a loose cloth, adding to the serene atmosphere of the image.

Technique & Style

The work is characterized by quick, scratchy lines that convey a sense of energy and spontaneity. The artist's restless hand is evident in the overlapping and blurring of lines, particularly around the subject's hair and collar.

Context

This etching is a study, rather than a polished work, and provides insight into Rembrandt's creative process and his use of etching as a medium.

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 The Artist's Mother in a Cloth Headdress, Looking Down?

The Artist's Mother in a Cloth Headdress, Looking Down was painted by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1633.

Where can I see The Artist's Mother in a Cloth Headdress, Looking Down?

The Artist's Mother in a Cloth Headdress, Looking Down is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is The Artist's Mother in a Cloth Headdress, Looking Down?

The Artist's Mother in a Cloth Headdress, Looking Down is associated with Baroque.

Can I buy a print of The Artist's Mother in a Cloth Headdress, Looking Down?

Museum-quality prints of The Artist's Mother in a Cloth Headdress, Looking Down are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.