Abraham Francen, Apothecary

Abraham Francen, Apothecary is a significant print created by the Dutch master, Rembrandt van Rijn, 1606-1669, between 1652 and 1662. Executed using the sophisticated intaglio techniques of etching and drypoint in black ink on paper, this work demonstrates the artist’s mature printmaking prowess. The subject, Abraham Francen, was a prominent apothecary and art collector in Amsterdam, known to be a close friend and confidant of the artist. The portrait is intimate and psychologically resonant, capturing Francen perhaps amidst his scholarly interests and library rather than his pharmaceutical trade, emphasizing his intellectual curiosity.

Created during a period of immense artistic ferment in the Netherlands, this work showcases Rembrandt’s unparalleled ability to achieve profound depth and psychological realism using line alone. The drypoint technique, which involves scratching directly into the copper plate, lends a characteristic velvety burr to the darkest areas, achieving deep shadow and distinguishing it from the cleaner, etched lines. The subtle shifts between light and shadow allow the viewer to focus entirely on the contemplative posture and expression of the subject. The date range (1652-1662) places the creation of this print firmly within the later phase of the artist's career, a time when 1606-1669 focused intensely on portraiture and personal subjects. The importance of Abraham Francen, Apothecary to the history of graphic art is reflected in the numerous high-quality reproductions and prints often made available through public domain initiatives. This exceptional impression of the print is held in the permanent collection of the Art Institute of Chicago.