Staande man met tas

The drawing Staande man met tas by Rembrandt van Rijn, dating from circa 1629-1630, exemplifies the artist’s focused early explorations in figure study. Classified as a drawing, the work utilizes paper as the primary support, enhanced by the careful application of chalk and a paint coating, indicating a mixed-media approach common in preparatory studies of the period. Created during the crucial years when the artist was rapidly establishing his reputation in Leiden, this piece showcases the developing observational mastery that would define the Dutch Golden Age. While the specific subject is a standing man holding a bag (tas), the technique emphasizes Rijn’s interest in capturing quick, natural posture and the rendering of various textures.

The dynamic use of chalk combined with the paint demonstrates Rijn’s experimental method, often blurring the distinction between preliminary sketch and finished composition. These figure studies were fundamental to the development of his later oil paintings and etchings, allowing him to refine poses and explore early chiaroscuro effects on a small scale. As a pivotal piece documenting the artistic culture of the Netherlands, the study remains an important scholarly resource for understanding the artist's formative years. The original work is carefully preserved and maintained within the esteemed permanent collection of the Rijksmuseum. Due to its age and cultural significance, high-quality Staande man met tas prints are frequently distributed through public domain initiatives, providing broad access to Rijn’s foundational drawings.