Rembrandt Harmensz. van Rijn

Etching with engraving and drypoint, circa 1631, a good impression of this scarce print, the rare second state (of five), a previously unrecorded state between New Hollstein's fourth and fifth state (of ten), before the lengthening of the hair

With narrow margins above, trimmed circa 1-2mm just within at sides (remargined at right with delicate touches of pen and ink), circa 3mm within below, lower corners repaired (these areas supported with a thin sheet of Japan paper), tiny pale stains on sitter's right eye, a couple of minute faint fox marks at upper right in the blank area, other minor defects, unframed.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

We thank Dr. Erik Hinterding for his assistance in cataloguing this work.

According to New Hollstein, this rare print only exists in later reworked states and is therefore considered a product of Rembrandt's studio. Works such as the present example may also have been the result of a collaboration between Rembrandt and Johannes van Vliet.