281 - Rembrandt Harmensz. van Rijn (1606, Leiden – Amsterdam, 1669), *Canal with an Angler and Two Swans*.

Rembrandt Harmensz. van Rijn (1606, Leiden – Amsterdam, 1669), *Canal with an Angler and Two Swans*. Etching and drypoint on laid paper. (1650). 8.5 x 11.1 cm (sheet). Bartsch 235; White/Boon 235 II (of II); Hinterding/Rutgers (The New Hollstein) 253 II (of II). A very fine, clear, and delicately drawn impression of New Hollstein’s second state, featuring additional shading in the meadow at the foot of the hill near the right edge, behind the angler, and around the grazing cows. Printing shows traces of burr in the reflections of the reeds along the far bank, beneath the boy on the far right, and on the farm implements in the center right, as well as fine horizontal wiping scratches in the sky and background. With thread margins on three sides; trimmed to the platemark at the top. With remarkable economy of line, Rembrandt evokes an expansive landscape of water and meadows stretching toward the distant hills. A canal winds through the flat Dutch countryside, while bands of reeds and their reflections form a succession of horizontal accents across the foreground. Beyond, the eye is drawn along the water and across the meadows toward the distant town, creating a compelling sense of depth and inviting the viewer to follow the landscape toward the horizon. – Verso with minimal surface rubbing and a tiny, faint area of paper thinning. A diagonal fold in the lower left corner. Otherwise in very good condition. Taxation: subject to regular taxation (VAT: Regular Taxation).