Portret van een man, mogelijk Rembrandts vader, Harmen Gerritsz. van Rijn 1734 - 1785

Jan Stolker created this portrait of a man, possibly Rembrandt's father, Harmen Gerritsz. van Rijn, using pen and gray ink, sometime in the 18th century. Notice how Stolker’s work here relies on a striking contrast between light and shadow to draw the eye. The deep blacks define the contours of the subject, while the lighter grays give depth to the face and clothing. This chiaroscuro effect dramatizes the figure, creating a sense of weight and presence. The composition, tightly focused on the upper body, emphasizes the face and the expressive details of the man's attire. The hat, a complex form rendered in nuanced shades, sits atop the figure, adding to the air of mystery and importance. By using a semiotic system of signs, we see that each element—the clothing, the hat, the facial expression—contributes to a larger narrative. This narrative evokes a sense of history and identity. Such formal choices encourage viewers to look beyond the surface, inviting endless interpretation and re-interpretation.