The Artist's Mother Seated, in an Oriental Headdress

The Artist's Mother Seated, in an Oriental Headdress by Rembrandt van Rijn, created in 1631, is a notable example of the artist's early mastery of printmaking. During the Dutch Golden Age, Rijn frequently used his mother, Neeltgen Willemsdochter van Zuytbrouck, as a model for tronies or character studies. This specific work, executed in the demanding medium of etching, captures her seated figure adorned in an elaborate head covering, suggesting the influence of exotic costumes and theatrical studies popular among artists during the period 1601 to 1650.

Rijn’s technical skill is evident in the delicate interplay of etched lines that define the texture of the fabric and the weathered features of the sitter. While many of Rijn's contemporary prints focused on complex mythological or religious narratives, this portrait maintains a profound intimacy. The composition features dramatic lighting, a precursor to the artist's mature use of chiaroscuro, which emphasizes her face. This technique draws the viewer's attention past the exotic, theatrical costume to the quiet dignity and psychological depth of the woman beneath.

As a key work representing the Dutch mastery of graphic arts, this etching is central to understanding the development of Rijn's distinctive style of psychological portraiture. The high quality and preservation of the work allow scholars to closely study Rijn’s evolving technique within his print output. The piece currently resides in the collection of the National Gallery of Art, Washington D.C. Because of the enduring popularity of Rijn's work and the historical significance of these 17th-century prints, many impressions of his graphic output are widely accessible today, often available to the public domain through institutional releases.