Bust of an Oriental Man

Discussion

FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG

Jan Lievens shared studio space and artistic inspiration with Rembrandt. This print showcases a favorite theme of both artists, the orientalizing character head or bust. The unidentified sitter wears both a turban and a necklace; the latter seems to bear the insignia of the Order of the Golden Fleece, an exclusive western noble order. Similar articles of clothing recur throughout Rembrandt’s paintings and prints; perhaps this model is simply wearing a borrowed turban, among other communal studio props.

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