Lieven Willemsz. van Coppenol, writing master: the smaller plate

The print Lieven Willemsz. van Coppenol, writing master: the smaller plate by Rembrandt van Rijn was created in 1658. Classified as a print, the work utilizes the luxurious texture of Japanese paper, a highly sought-after support Rijn favored for achieving deeply nuanced tonal effects in his etched plates. This intimate portrait captures the celebrated Amsterdam writing master, Lieven Willemsz. van Coppenol (1598-1667), engrossed in his profession. Unlike the earlier, larger plates Rijn made of the same sitter, this version is intensely focused, showing Van Coppenol leaning over a desk, pen in hand, suggesting deep concentration on the precise act of calligraphy.

Rijn’s masterful handling of the etching and drypoint techniques is evident in the delicate interplay of light and shadow, which highlights the sitter's face and hands against the deeper background. This skilled rendering reflects the high status of calligraphy and formalized penmanship in the 17th-century Dutch Republic. Van Coppenol’s reputation was significant, and Rijn’s choice to immortalize him reflects the artistic interest in celebrated contemporary figures of the period. This notable piece is part of the extensive collection of the Rijksmuseum, contributing greatly to the public domain understanding of 17th-century Dutch master prints. Today, the enduring quality and expressive technique of this print continue to solidify Rijn’s reputation as one of history's greatest printmakers.