Jan Lutma, goldsmith 1656

This etching of Jan Lutma, goldsmith, was created by Rembrandt van Rijn. Note how Rembrandt uses the etching needle to create a symphony of textures. Lutma’s face emerges softly from the dense network of lines, while his cap and robe are described with deeper, more confident marks. The overall composition is stable, anchored by the solid form of the chair and the subject's centered position. Rembrandt masterfully manipulates the contrast between light and shadow. The goldsmith’s face, hands and parts of his clothing are illuminated to draw attention to these areas. The hatching technique, with its variations in direction and density, allows Rembrandt to model forms and create a sense of volume in this two-dimensional image. The contrast between the textured surfaces and smooth areas invites closer inspection, revealing the artist’s profound understanding of how light interacts with form.