Jan Lutma, Goldsmith

Jan Lutma, Goldsmith is a masterful print created by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1656. This significant work, executed in the intricate combination of etching and drypoint, depicts the noted Amsterdam silversmith and medalist, Jan Lutma (c. 1584–1669), a respected figure in 17th-century artistic circles. The composition captures Lutma seated in his workshop, surrounded by implements of his trade, notably a small box and perhaps a vessel or a piece of finished metalwork faintly visible beside him. The focus is highly personal, typical of Rijn's sensitive approach to portraiture late in his career.

The nuanced texture and deep shadows achieved through the drypoint technique demonstrate Rijn's late mastery of printmaking. The heavy burr from the drypoint lines creates rich, velvety tones, setting the figure against a darker backdrop that enhances the intimate atmosphere. Created during the height of the Dutch Golden Age, this portrait reflects the prosperity and high status accorded to skilled artisans in the Netherlands during the period. Unlike earlier, more conventional depictions, Rijn’s portrayal emphasizes the sitter’s character and meditative quality rather than merely his occupational status.

This piece is a quintessential example of Rijn’s mature graphic output, renowned for its psychological depth and technical innovation in the field of prints. Today, high-quality images of this historic artwork are often available through public domain initiatives, ensuring accessibility for studies of 17th-century European art. This impression of Jan Lutma, Goldsmith is held within the distinguished collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art.