Seated Actor in the Role of Capitano c. 1634 - 1636
drawing, ink, pen
portrait
drawing
toned paper
light pencil work
baroque
pen sketch
pencil sketch
figuration
personal sketchbook
ink
ink drawing experimentation
pen-ink sketch
sketchbook drawing
pen
pencil work
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.
Comments
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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