Who painted Rembrandt van Rijn?

Rembrandt van Rijn was painted by Ferdinand Bol in 1640.

Where can I see Rembrandt van Rijn?

Rembrandt van Rijn is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Rembrandt van Rijn?

Rembrandt van Rijn is associated with Baroque.

Artwork

Rembrandt van Rijn

Ferdinand Bol , 1640

Rembrandt van Rijn is an ink drawing by the Baroque artist Ferdinand Bol. It dates from 1640 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

Around 1640 Ferdinand Bol created a portrait drawing of his former master, Rembrandt van Rijn, using chalk, pen and ink combined with brush wash on a sheet edged with gold paper. The work captures the elder artist from the chest up, his curly hair and dark jacket set against a light background, conveying a restrained, thoughtful presence.

Subject & Meaning

The sitter, identified as Rembrandt, is rendered with a serious expression and direct gaze, his head turned slightly to the right. The composition emphasizes the contemplative mood, suggesting an intimate study of the painter’s character rather than a formal likeness, inviting viewers to consider the artist’s inner life.

Technique & Style

Bol employs a layered approach: delicate chalk modeling defines facial planes, while fine pen lines articulate details of hair and attire. Broad brush washes create subtle tonal shifts in the background, and the gold‑trimmed border adds a modest decorative element. The handling reflects the Baroque interest in chiaroscuro and texture, echoing his master’s drawing methods.

History & Provenance

Created during Bol’s early independent period, the drawing likely served as a personal tribute to his teacher. It remained in private collections before entering a museum inventory in the late 19th century, where it has been catalogued as an example of student‑master exchange within the Dutch Golden Age.

Context

Both Bol and Rembrandt were active participants in the flourishing Dutch art market of the 17th century, a time when drawing and printmaking were central to artistic training and dissemination. The portrait illustrates the pedagogical relationship that shaped Bol’s career and highlights the broader tradition of portraiture that combined realism with expressive nuance.