Seated Actor in the Role of Capitano by Rembrandt van Rijn

Seated Actor in the Role of Capitano c. 1634 - 1636

drawing, ink, pen

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portrait

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drawing

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toned paper

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light pencil work

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baroque

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pen sketch

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pencil sketch

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figuration

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personal sketchbook

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ink

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ink drawing experimentation

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pen-ink sketch

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sketchbook drawing

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pen

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pencil work

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sketchbook art

This drawing, created by the Dutch master Rembrandt van Rijn, depicts a seated actor in the role of Capitano. Dated around 1634-1636, the piece showcases Rembrandt’s masterful use of pen and ink, capturing the character's swaggering pose and flamboyant attire with dynamic lines and shading. The figure is rendered in a loose and expressive manner, emphasizing movement and gesture, a characteristic of Rembrandt's early style. The work is a prime example of his early exploration of theatrical subjects and his ability to capture the essence of a character with a few deft strokes.

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Comments

rijksmuseum's Profile Picture
rijksmuseum over 1 year ago

Rembrandt’s interest in the theatre lasted throughout his entire career. The costume worn by this actor closely resembles that of the flamboyant, blusterous Capitano, a character in the Italian commedia dell’arte performances and popular in Dutch farces. The woman at the left, an old procuress, offers him an open bag. The Dutch word for ‘bag’ (‘tas’) at the time also meant ‘prostitute’.

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