Jan Lutma

Jan Lutma is an acclaimed portrait print created by Rembrandt (Rembrandt van Rijn) in 1656. This masterful work combines three distinct intaglio techniques: etching, engraving, and drypoint. This impression is identified as the rare first of four known states, characterized by the rich, velvety quality of the drypoint burr, which lends exceptional depth to the dark passages and the contours of the figure. The artist frequently employed these hybrid methods to achieve unparalleled textural effects and psychological nuance in his prints.

The subject, Jan Lutma (1584-1669), was a highly respected silversmith and goldsmith operating in Amsterdam during the height of the Dutch Golden Age. This insightful portrait captures the distinguished elderly man seated, holding an object indicative of his refined profession—likely a small sculpture or specialized tool—which symbolizes his craft and social standing. Rembrandt’s treatment of the light and shadow emphasizes the subject’s thoughtful gaze and the texture of his garments, securing the piece’s reputation among the finest 17th-century European portraits of men.

This exceptional work currently resides in the collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. As one of the most celebrated prints created by the Dutch master, it remains an essential reference point for art historians studying technical innovation in printmaking. Today, high-resolution images of these historic prints are often made available through public domain initiatives, allowing broader access to Rembrandt’s enduring technical brilliance.