Five Studies of Haman’s Head c. 1655 - 1660

Editor: Here we have Rembrandt van Rijn's "Five Studies of Haman’s Head," made around 1655-1660. It’s a series of pencil sketches on toned paper. There's something so intimate about seeing an artist’s process like this; it feels like glimpsing into his personal sketchbook. What can you tell us about this work? Curator: These sketches offer a fascinating window into Rembrandt’s creative process, particularly within the socio-political context of 17th-century artistic patronage. He was deeply invested in conveying emotion, and these studies might be preparatory explorations for a larger painting. Consider how the character of Haman was received, often a symbol of tyrannical power. Could these be attempts to visualize that through physiognomy? Editor: That's a really interesting idea! The different angles and expressions... I see what you mean about tyranny and power. I suppose I hadn’t thought about it in relation to the politics of the time. Curator: Precisely! And Rembrandt, grappling with shifts in the art market and waning commissions later in life, demonstrates in drawings like this his persistent intellectual engagement with the public role of imagery. Were these intended for public viewing or more private study, how does that inflect our reading of the work? Editor: That's a question I never would have asked myself! I was so focused on the visual aspects of it, but considering the intended audience really changes how you look at it. It adds a whole new layer to the experience. Thanks so much. Curator: Absolutely. Thinking about art as a social and political mirror, constantly reshaped by historical forces, keeps things exciting. I learned something as well, considering Haman’s persona.