Original etching and drypoint in black ink on laid paper. Signed in the plate, "Rembrandt" upper left. Impression from the third and final state according to Usticke. Published in the Basan recueil. A strong impression with 1/8" margins, in fine condition. Plate in existence, Paris.

Platemark: 5 3/4" x 4 1/2"; Frame size: 19" x 16 1/2"
Catalogue ref: Bartsch 344; Usticke 344 iii/iii; Hind 91

Although there is no documentary evidence to confirm it, the subject of this etching has been identified as Rembrandt’s mother, Neeltgen Willemsdochter van Zuytbroeck. Rembrandt’s mother was the subject of five other etchings and numerous paintings between 1628 and 1633.

This etching most likely coincides with Rembrandt’s move to Amsterdam in 1631. Many of the prints from this period have a certain formality, unlike earlier, smaller studies of his mother. The formal compositions of this period may have been used as an example of his portraiture skills to impress potential patrons.