Jan Lutma 1656

Rembrandt van Rijn created this etching of Jan Lutma, a goldsmith, using ink on paper. The composition directs us to the sitter’s face, distinguished by its expressive qualities. Rembrandt skillfully manipulates light and shadow, a technique known as chiaroscuro, to model Jan Lutma’s features and clothing. The intense blacks of the chair contrast with the subtle gradations of gray that define his face, hands, and the objects on the table, giving the scene a spatial depth. The lines vary in thickness and density, creating a rich texture that invites the viewer to explore the intricacies of the medium. The architectural backdrop and the tools on the table hint at Lutma’s profession, embedding him in a context that is both personal and representative of his craft. Ultimately, the beauty of this etching lies in its formal qualities. Rembrandt has made a study of the textures, light, and form that engage with broader ideas about portraiture and representation in the 17th century.