The Artist’s Mother: Head and Bust, Three-Quarters Right

Description

Traditionally known as The Artist’s Mother, Rembrandt’s etching shows an aging woman in head-and-bust view, turned toward the right beneath a cloth head covering. Rich hatching develops the hair and clothing around her face. Traditionally identified as the artist’s mother, the close figure gives the print an intimate human frame, allowing outward presence to carry the scene without an elaborate narrative setting.

Made in 1628, the etching belongs to Rembrandt’s early printed work. The familiar identification gives the portrait a personal frame while the image remains an encounter with outward appearance. Its interest lies in the concentration granted to one figure, where a modest view can disclose character through attentive looking. The printed form preserves a presence beyond the passing glance, making the head and shoulders enough to sustain a close relationship between subject and viewer.

Read our guide to giclée prints or browse the Rembrandt collection.