The plate was initially part of a larger plate with various studies (B 366). It was cut up into five separate parts, which are listed as B143, B 300 (this one), B303, B 333 and B 334. None of these smaller plates was included in early auctions or collections. They are probably lost.

All five heads of the original plate are good examples of the tronies that Rembrandt made in the early years of his career, when still living in Leiden. It is generally assumed that they were meant as studies. for the heads we find in his paintings.

There is a copy in reverse by Costantino Cumano (39 x 42 mm, WB).

Münz thinks that the plate is reworked by Johannes van Vliet.
The plate is not by Rembrandt according to Coppier and Singer.

There are large differences in the way the various authors treat the undivided and divided plate. NH lists one state for the undivided plate, as do WB and BB. Other authors list two. The difference between the two would be that in the 1st state the outlines still stop short of the plate edges and are extended in the 2nd state.
NH lists six more states for the divided plate, of which the final three not by Rembrandt. The 4th and 5th state are ‘new’. WB and NU list four states of the divided plate, for a total of five.
In the 2nd state (NH, WB, NU) the lines of the coat are extended to the edge, the outline of the shirt is made continuous and the cap is strengthened with a new line.
In the 3rd state (NH, WB, NU/5th state H) there is crosshatching in the dark shadow of the cap and several other small changes.
In the 4th state (NH) a few extra lines are added on the far left side of the cap.
In the 5th state (NH) crosshatching is added to the chest. There are additional horizontal strokes to the V-shaped opening of the coat. This state is no longer by Rembrandt.
In the 6th state (NH/4th state WB, R956, NU/3rd state BB) a few hairs are added behind the head.
In the 7th state (NH/5th state WB, R957, NU/4th state BB) there is diagonal crosshatching added to the V-shaped opening of the vest.

An impression of the 7th state (NH, 5th state WB) is found in the Petit Cahier.
Bartsch has incorrectly considered an impression on vellum in the Rijksmuseum as a separate plate (B301).

H 41E, BB 31-3, G 277, M 88, Mz 31e, RA -, Cl 296, W 300, Bl 291, Du 296, CD 44-B
Baas 2015, p. 134-135;

NH: 7th and final state/WB: 5th and final state
Sheet 38 x 33 mm, cut at or slightly within the platemark (-5%).
No watermark, no chain lines visible.

In the collection of August Artaria (Lugt 33, Vienna 1807-1893), his collectors stamp verso.
Probably in the sale of his estate in May 1896.

Rembrandt, de fotograaf, Westfries Museum (Hoorn), June 2024 – January 2025;