Bust of a Jewish Priest c. 18th century

Editor: This is Christian Wilhelm Ernst Dietrich's "Bust of a Jewish Priest." The cross-hatching creates a striking, yet somber mood. What do you see in this piece? Curator: Ah, Dietrich! Look closely at that fur hat and the way it’s rendered. It's like a cloud settled on his head, isn’t it? He evokes Rembrandt’s portraits, wouldn't you say? Dietrich, bless his heart, was obsessed with mimicking the greats. Editor: So, you're saying it's more of an imitation than innovation? Curator: Perhaps. But even echoes can hold beauty and a peculiar truth. What do you think? Editor: I see your point; there's still a story being told, even if it's someone else's style. Thanks.