European

Harmensz Van Rijn Rembrandt

Netherlands 1606-1669
Portrait of Jan Asselyn OP 288

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Jan Asselyn (1610-1652), a contemporary of Rembrandt's, was a well-known Dutch painter of Italianate landscapes, that is, landscapes based on views of the antique Roman countryside, both real and imagined. He was much influenced by the work of the French artist Claude Lorraine, who also was known for his idealized and glowing views of ancient Italy. Rembrandt frequently used his friends, acquaintances, and loved ones as sitters for his portraits. In this etching, Rembrandt affectionately places Asselyn, whose nickname was Crabbetje, or "Little Crab" because of a crippling affliction to his hand, at his desk as if he has just been interrupted at his work.

 

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