Thomas Haaringh (Old Haaringh)

The intimate portrait Thomas Haaringh (Old Haaringh) was created by the Dutch master Rembrandt van Rijn between 1650 and 1660, during the height of the Dutch Golden Age. This powerful depiction is classified as a print, executed primarily using drypoint, a technique enhanced by the subtle, decisive line work of the burin. Crucially, this impression represents the third and final state of the work, reflecting Rembrandt’s meticulous, iterative process of evolving his copper plates and refining the composition’s atmospheric quality.

The subject, Thomas Haaringh, was an adult male, likely a known associate of the artist or a figure connected to Amsterdam’s civic administration. Rembrandt, particularly during the 1650s, demonstrated unparalleled command over the drypoint medium, skillfully utilizing the residual burr left by the needle to create rich, velvety shadows and achieve a deeply atmospheric effect. This approach is characteristic of the artist’s mature style, where psychological depth often overshadows precise physical detail, elevating the personal portrait into a nuanced exploration of the sitter’s character and inner life.

As a highly sought-after example of 17th-century Dutch graphic arts, this remarkable print resides within the comprehensive collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The subtle manipulation of light and shadow highlights Rembrandt’s innovative approach to portraiture and his unique contribution to printmaking history. Due to the age and historical significance of the original plates, high-resolution images of this and many of Rembrandt’s finest prints are often available through public domain sources, ensuring wide accessibility for scholars and enthusiasts worldwide.