Jan Antonides van der Linden

Jan Antonides van der Linden is a print created by the celebrated Dutch master Rembrandt van Rijn in 1665. Executed on paper, this work is classified as a print, showcasing Rijn’s continued engagement with the graphic arts even late in his career. While the exact technique utilized for this specific piece is not detailed, the artist was renowned for his profound expertise in etching and drypoint, which allowed for unparalleled texture and emotional depth in his portraiture.

Created during the Dutch Golden Age, a period marked by intellectual and economic prosperity, the subject, Jan Antonides van der Linden (1609-1664), was a distinguished physician and professor of medicine at Leiden University, though he had passed away the previous year. Rijn’s artistic focus often centered on notable figures, capturing both their professional demeanor and their individual character, a hallmark of 17th-century Dutch portraiture. The precision and sensitivity evident in the work reflect the demands of commissioning wealthy and educated patrons during this era.

This masterful impression demonstrates Rijn’s ability to manipulate light and shadow, defining the contours of the sitter’s face and conveying an air of gravitas appropriate for a man of his stature. The work represents a significant cultural artifact from the period, preserving the likeness of a key academic figure through the medium of prints. This print resides in the collection of the Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam, ensuring its continued preservation and accessibility. Works like Jan Antonides van der Linden are frequently made available through public domain initiatives, ensuring widespread appreciation of Rijn's enduring legacy in the history of art.