Old Man with a Gold Chain

An early portrait by Rembrandt, painted c.1631 in Leiden. An elderly man wears a dark purple cloak, prominent gold chain with medallion, and a steel gorget. A pearl adorns his ear and his hair is covered by a feathered black hat.

Long identified as Rembrandt's father, now classified as a "tronie" — a character study in elaborate costume. The gold chain, gorget, and feathered hat are typical studio props.

Already displays Rembrandt's remarkable command of chiaroscuro at age twenty-five. Now at the Art Institute of Chicago.