Ragged peasant with his hands behind him, holding a stick

Rembrandt van Rijn made this etching of a ragged peasant holding a stick behind his back. The figure stands with quiet dignity despite his worn clothing and humble status. Rembrandt's sensitive line work captures character and humanity in a subject most artists ignored.

Rembrandt produced hundreds of etchings and prints throughout his career, often depicting common people with the same care he gave to wealthy patrons. This print demonstrates his democratic vision and technical mastery. An impression is held at the Art Institute of Chicago.