1807 - 雕刻 由 N. Schiavonetti（1771–1813）创作，仿自伦勃朗。 - 53 cm

Copper Engraving by N. Schiavonetti (1771–1813), after Rembrandt

Period: Printed circa 1807, early 19th century
Medium: Engraving on heavy wove paper
Dimensions: Sheet approx. 553 × 412 mm; image approx. 215 × 178 mm
Condition: Excellent condition, with light signs of age
Collection number: 283

Subject

Portrait of the painter Nicolaes Pietersz. Berchem, shown half-length and turned three-quarters to the left. He wears a broad-brimmed hat and a dark cloak with a white collar. His right hand emerges from beneath the cloak and is prominently visible in the foreground. The background is kept neutral and dark, allowing the sitter’s face and clothing to stand out clearly. The composition follows the conventions of 17th-century Dutch portraiture, with an emphasis on character and social standing.

In the 17th-century Dutch Republic, portraits of artists served as a means of emphasising professionalism, craftsmanship and reputation. The depiction of Berchem follows this tradition: a serious yet restrained character study, consistent with the image of the artist as a learned craftsman. His pose and clothing, together with the neutral background, reinforce this established type of portraiture.

Design by the Artist

Rembrandt Harmensz. van Rijn (1606–1669), Dutch painter, draughtsman and etcher. Renowned for his portraiture, his masterful use of light and shadow, and his profound psychological observation. From the 18th century onwards, his portrait studies were frequently used as source material by English and Italian engravers.

Engraved by the Master Engraver

Niccolò Schiavonetti (1771–1813), an Italian engraver active in London. He was known for his meticulous reproductions after Old Masters and for his collaborations with British publishers. His work is characterised by fine linework, subtle hatching and a carefully controlled treatment of light.

Provenance

This early 19th-century engraving after Rembrandt was acquired in 2005 from the private collection of J. van Calker, a collector from Overijssel with a specialist interest in historical printmaking. The collector acquired the work between 1994 and 1998 through Hessink’s Fine Art Auctioneers in Zwolle. Prior to this, the print formed part of an international private collection, with no further documented provenance.