The Persian

The Persian, created by the Dutch master Rembrandt van Rijn in 1632, is a significant example of his early work in the graphic arts. Classified as a print, the piece was executed using the demanding technique of etching. This specific impression is identified as New Holl.'s second state of three, reflecting Rembrandt's meticulous and iterative process in developing his plates before finalizing the published version. This attention to subtle changes between states demonstrates the artist's dedication to perfecting the atmospheric quality and line work of his compositions.

The subject is a solitary figure, a man depicted wearing an elaborate headdress and rich, non-Western garments, suggesting an attempt to portray a foreign dignitary or character study. During this period, Dutch artists like Rembrandt frequently used such exotic costume to explore drama, texture, and light, often creating tronies intended more for artistic study than as specific portraits. The intense scrutiny of the face and the careful rendering of the folds of the fabric demonstrate Rembrandt’s burgeoning skill in manipulating the etched line to create depth and shadow.

This exceptional print showcases Rembrandt's innovative use of the printing medium during a highly productive phase of his career. As the artwork is nearly four centuries old, it belongs to the historical body of European art now widely available in the public domain for research and appreciation. This impression of The Persian is held in the permanent collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, where it contributes to the comprehensive display of important Dutch prints and drawings.