Johannes Lutma

The print Johannes Lutma was created by Rembrandt van Rijn in 1656. Executed on paper, this work is a superb example of the artist's late style in printmaking, combining etching and drypoint techniques. It depicts the renowned Utrecht-based goldsmith Johannes Lutma (c. 1584-1669), a prominent figure in Dutch decorative arts, known for his innovative designs in the Kwabstijl (Wavy Style). Rijn captured Lutma in an intimate, half-length pose, emphasizing the sitter's dignity and intellectual presence, setting the subject within the context of his trade by subtly including elements related to his craft.

Dated to the height of the Dutch Golden Age, this portrait showcases Rijn’s mastery in depicting texture and psychological depth using only line and careful manipulation of shadow. The 1656 date places this work relatively late in the artist’s career, coinciding with his continued exploration of dramatic contrasts between light and deep shadow in his graphic works. This sophisticated use of contrast highlights the solemn character of the sitter, a hallmark of Rijn's portraiture whether in paint or in prints.

As one of the most significant figures in 17th-century European art, Rijn produced relatively few etched portraits of contemporaries compared to his self-portraits, making Johannes Lutma a key piece in his extensive graphic output. This definitive impression forms part of the world-class collection of Dutch master prints held by the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. Due to its age and historical importance, high-resolution reproductions of this work are frequently made available through public domain initiatives, ensuring broad access to the enduring legacy of the master printmaker.