Sheet of studies, with a woman lying ill in bed: busts of two male figures c. 1639

This etching, "Sheet of studies, with a woman lying ill in bed: busts of two male figures", is a small-scale work by Rembrandt van Rijn, dating back to 1639. Typical of Rembrandt's preparatory sketches, the work demonstrates the artist's masterful use of line to capture the essence of his subjects. The study features the bust of two figures, likely portraits, rendered with intricate detail, revealing Rembrandt's keen observation of human features and expressions. The figure on the left, depicted in profile, wears a wide-brimmed hat, while the figure on the right, with a thick beard, is seen in three-quarters view, showcasing the artist's interest in exploring different angles and perspectives. While the exact identity of the subjects remains uncertain, the work provides a fascinating glimpse into Rembrandt's creative process and his ability to capture the individuality of his subjects.