Bust of an Old Bearded Man Looking Down, Three-Quarters Right

Bust of an Old Bearded Man Looking Down, Three-Quarters Right is a powerful print created by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1631. Executed using the demanding medium of etching, this work demonstrates the young artist's sophisticated command over line and tone. This particular impression represents the third state of three, indicating Rembrandt's iterative refinement of the plate, especially visible in the delicate cross-hatching used to model the face and define the dense texture of the beard. Produced during a pivotal year in the artist’s career, the piece reflects the growing demand for detailed character studies and portraits in early 17th-century Amsterdam.

The subject is an older man, positioned three-quarters right, whose profound gaze is directed downwards, suggesting introspection or deep contemplation. While many of Rembrandt’s studies from this era function as tronies (studies of expressive heads rather than commissions), the intense realism applied here captures the individuality and emotional depth associated with his finest portrait work. Rembrandt masterfully utilizes the contrast between deep shadows and highlighted features, enhancing the dramatic effect typical of the Dutch Baroque style. The emphasis on the aged texture of the skin and the intricate rendering of the man’s clothing highlights the artist's dedication to realism.

Today, this important piece of art history is held within the renowned collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. As a celebrated example of 17th-century European prints, and due to its age and cultural significance, high-quality representations of the work are frequently available in public domain archives, ensuring the accessibility of Rembrandt’s early mastery to scholars and enthusiasts worldwide.