Rembrandt Harmensz van Rijn - Three Oriental Figures (Jacob and Laban?) (1641)

Three Oriental Figures (Jacob and Laban?) (1641)

Artist: Rembrandt Harmensz van Rijn (1606–1669)
Title: Three Oriental Figures (Jacob and Laban?)
Year: 1641
Medium: Etching and drypoint on laid paper
Dimensions (plate): 145 × 114 mm (5 3/4 × 4 1/2 in)
Dimensions (sheet): 146 × 116 mm (5 3/4 × 4 5/8 in)
Edition / State: New Hollstein’s second and final state
Margins: Thread margins
Framing: Unframed
Reference: New Hollstein 190 ; Bartsch 118
Provenance:
• Alexander John Godby, London (Lugt 1119b)
• The Collection of Joseph Knight (1870–1952), painter & printmaker
• Thence by descent to the current owner

Description

Three Oriental Figures (Jacob and Laban?) (1641) is an exquisite etching and drypoint by Rembrandt, one of the greatest printmakers in Western art. Executed during a period of intense experimentation, the work demonstrates Rembrandt’s mastery of line, character, and atmospheric depth.

The scene depicts three men in “oriental” dress—perhaps Jacob and Laban—rendered with Rembrandt’s signature psychological subtlety. The deep drypoint accents, combined with the finely etched contours, give the figures a vivid presence despite the composition’s intimate scale.

This impression is from New Hollstein’s second and final state, printed during Rembrandt’s lifetime. It is preserved with thread margins, characteristic of authentic early impressions. Works of this quality and period have become increasingly rare, especially with distinguished provenance.

The print comes from two notable collections:
• Alexander John Godby, a respected London collector (Lugt 1119b)
• Joseph Knight, painter, printmaker, and Royal Academy exhibitor

A highly desirable museum-level work for collectors of Old Master prints and Rembrandt etchings.

Shipping & Delivery

✔ Worldwide shipping from France
✔ Archival, museum-grade packaging
✔ Full insurance + tracking
✔ Delivery within 5–10 business days

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FAQ

Is this an original Rembrandt print?
Yes — it is an authentic 17th-century etching and drypoint, New Hollstein’s second and final state.

What references authenticate this work?
It is catalogued in New Hollstein 190 and Bartsch 118, the primary references for Rembrandt prints.

Is the print signed?
No — Rembrandt did not sign all his etchings; this is typical and as issued.

Does the work have good margins?
Yes — it retains thread margins, desirable for early impressions.

Is the provenance important?
Extremely—this print comes from two notable collectors, including Joseph Knight, a Royal Academy exhibitor.

Is the print framed?
No — it is unframed, allowing safe transport and custom framing.

Do you ship internationally?
Yes — worldwide insured shipping is available.