Sheet with Two Studies: A Tree and the Upper Part of a Head of Rembrandt Wearing a Velvet Cap

Sheet with Two Studies: A Tree and the Upper Part of a Head of Rembrandt Wearing a Velvet Cap by Rembrandt (Rembrandt van Rijn) is a complex and illustrative print executed sometime between 1637 and 1647. This singular etching, classified as the only known state, provides direct insight into Rembrandt’s exploratory methods during the height of the Dutch Golden Age. The artist utilized the copper plate for two unrelated studies, demonstrating his habitual practice of investigating disparate subjects simultaneously on a single sheet.

One distinct study captures a rugged, detailed depiction of a tree, showcasing Rembrandt’s deep engagement with natural forms, a subject prevalent in his landscape drawings and prints of the era. This botanical examination contrasts sharply with the other study: the upper part of the artist's own head, recognizable by the familiar features and the velvet cap commonly seen in his prolific self-studies. These fragments often functioned as rapid preparatory investigations or experiments, allowing Rembrandt to quickly explore texture, light, and form before committing them to larger compositions.

The dating places the piece firmly within the period when Rembrandt was exploring etching as a refined artistic medium, pushing its technical boundaries far beyond its traditional uses. The precision and delicacy of the line work reveal the master's evolving command of printmaking. As a highly valued example of the artist’s graphic work, this impression is maintained in the comprehensive collection of prints held by the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Like many works of this era, the piece exemplifies the technical innovation that established Rembrandt as one of history's greatest printmakers, and its historical significance often leads to high-resolution images being made available in the public domain for study and appreciation.