Studies of the head of Saskia and others after 1636

This drawing, “Studies of the Head of Saskia and Others”, was created by an anonymous artist sometime after 1636. It is located in the Rijksmuseum and measures just 153 mm in height and 133 mm in width. The artist’s quick, expressive lines capture the different features of the heads in the composition, with the most prominent being that of Saskia, Rembrandt's wife. This study of various poses and expressions is likely an example of a preparatory drawing for a larger work. The drawing’s simple composition and straightforward approach make it a compelling example of the artistic practice of the 17th century in the Netherlands.