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Self-Portrait with SaskiaSelf-Portrait with Saskia © The Pierpont Morgan Library/Art Resource, NY

Self-Portrait with Saskia

Rembrandt van Rijn. 1636 C.E. Etching.

Curator Note

"An intimate etching of the Dutch master and his wife. Unlike typical formal portraits, this is a "marriage portrait" of the artist at work, with Saskia seated behind him as his muse. It captures a moment of personal happiness and professional confidence, using Rembrandt’s signature mastery of light and line."

Form

  • Etching (printmaking using acid).
  • Sketchy, spontaneous lines.
  • Control of tone (light and shadow) via hatching.
  • Different "states" (versions).
  • Small scale.

Function

  • Private image of the couple.
  • Study of expressions and composition.
  • To present himself as an artist.
  • Not a commissioned formal portrait.
  • To explore the relationship between artist and muse.

Content

  • Rembrandt: drawing, wearing a fanciful hat (historical costume).
  • Saskia: seated further back, lighter touch.
  • The action: looking in a mirror to draw himself.
  • Theme: Love and Art.
  • Psychological depth.

Context

  • Rembrandt was the master of the Dutch Golden Age.
  • Saskia was wealthy; her marriage raised his status.
  • She died young; this records their happy years.
  • Rembrandt made more self-portraits than anyone else.
  • Etching allowed for artistic freedom.