Artwork
Rembrandt
Rembrandt is an ink print by Timothy Cole. It dates from 1921 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
Timothy Cole’s 1921 wood engraving, titled “Rembrandt,” presents a monochrome portrait of a seated figure. The subject, rendered with short, curly hair and a high collar, turns slightly away from the viewer, eyes directed downward. The composition is confined to a tight frame, emphasizing the detailed rendering of facial features and attire.
Technique & Style
Cole employed cross‑hatching, layering fine parallel lines to build tonal variation and depth. This method creates a texture that resembles a precise drawing, with darker areas achieved through denser line work, particularly around the neck and the right side of the face. The engraving’s sharp lines and controlled shading exemplify early‑20th‑century printmaking precision.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait likely references the Dutch master Rembrandt van Rijn, echoing his characteristic self‑portrait conventions. By depicting the sitter with a modest gaze and restrained expression, the work suggests introspection and the artist’s reverence for the historical figure’s legacy.
History & Provenance
Created in 1921, the engraving is part of Cole’s broader series of reproductions that brought classic artworks to a wider audience. It was produced during a period when American printmakers frequently revisited European masters, contributing to the educational dissemination of art history through affordable prints.
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Artist & collection
