Bearded Man in a Velvet Cap with a Jewel Clasp

The present work is an example of the delight Rembrandt took in depicting a wide range of textures. Celebrated for his understanding of light and shade, his ability to evoke different surfaces is equally impressive and plays an important role in particular in his earlier works. This portrait brings together a variety of materials and surfaces: the fur of the collar, the sitter's beard and skin, the velvet of the cap and the gemstone in the jewel clasp. It was probably this anonymous sitter's impressive appearance which persuaded Rembrandt to portray the man rather than a paid commission.