Jan Asselijn, painter c. 1647

This print of Jan Asselijn, painter, was made by Rembrandt van Rijn sometime in the mid-17th century. He likely used an etching technique: a metal plate is coated with a waxy ground, and then lines are drawn into the ground with a needle, exposing the metal. The plate is then immersed in acid, which bites into the exposed lines. The magic of Rembrandt's printmaking lies in his use of line. See how he varies the density and direction to describe not just form, but also light and shadow? Notice how the lines are closer together in the darker areas, creating a sense of depth and volume. Look at the sitter's clothing and the way his hat casts a shadow on his face. This work is a testament to the skilled labor involved in traditional printmaking. It bridges the gap between craft and fine art, inviting us to appreciate the technical skill alongside the aesthetic vision.