Man in a Coat and Fur Cap Leaning against a Bank

"Man in a Coat and Fur Cap Leaning against a Bank" is a compelling etching created by the Dutch master Rembrandt van Rijn, dating from approximately 1625-1635. This print exemplifies Rembrandt's early exploration of human character within the demanding medium of intaglio. This specific impression is identified as the New Holl. first state of three, showcasing the delicate line work and textural details established by the artist before later modifications or plate wear. Rembrandt utilized the etching technique, which allowed for a rapid, spontaneous quality of execution often unavailable in traditional engraving, effectively capturing the roughness of the man's coat and the softness of the fur cap.

The subject depicts a solitary figure, heavily bundled in warm clothing suitable for the Northern European climate, resting against an unseen bank or incline. The detailed attention given to the face and the man's contemplative posture elevates the piece beyond simple portraiture. Like many of Rembrandt's studies of men during this period, this work may belong to the genre of tronie—an expressive study of a head or figure designed to capture personality or a specific mood rather than documenting a precise individual's identity.

As a product of the early Dutch Golden Age, the piece reflects Rembrandt's growing fascination with capturing the psychological depth achievable through monochrome graphic arts. The mastery of light and shadow, characteristic of the artist's style, highlights the intensity of the figure. This rare print resides in the respected collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Due to the age and enduring artistic significance of the work, high-resolution reproductions of many of Rembrandt's prints are often available through public domain initiatives, ensuring widespread scholarly access to this seminal aspect of the artist's legacy.