A Peasant in a High Cap, Standing Leaning on a Stick

"A Peasant in a High Cap, Standing Leaning on a Stick" by Rembrandt van Rijn, dated 1639, is a compelling example of the artist's dedication to printmaking during his mature period in Amsterdam. Executed as an etching, this impression represents the technical finesse achieved in the second known state of the plate. Throughout the 1630s and 1640s, Rembrandt devoted considerable effort to exploiting the expressive potential of prints, often focusing on intimate character studies of individuals drawn from marginalized social strata.

The subject is an elderly man, likely a peasant, easily identified by his distinctive high cap, wide cloak, and heavily slouched posture. He stands, supported primarily by a stout stick or staff. Rembrandt uses dense, intricate cross-hatching to capture the texture of the rough garments and render the man’s features with deep shadows. The subtle effects achieved in this etching, particularly the contrast between the highly detailed figure and the virtually blank background, demonstrate the Dutch master’s technical prowess in creating profound psychological portraits within the demanding medium of printmaking. Such depictions of common men highlight Rembrandt's enduring interest in human character beyond the confines of religious or historical narrative.

This masterful print is part of the extensive collection of Dutch Golden Age works held by the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The detail and complexity of the etching technique make this type of work highly valuable for art historical study. Because works like A Peasant in a High Cap, Standing Leaning on a Stick are now considered within the public domain, high-quality prints and reproductions are widely accessible, allowing researchers and the general public close engagement with Rembrandt's enduring artistic output.