Rembrandt, Harmenszoon van Rijn – Ratcatcher Hermitage ~ part 10

The etching presents a scene centered around a man engaged in what appears to be pest control – specifically, rat catching. He stands prominently, clad in rough-spun clothing and a tall, fur-trimmed hat that obscures much of his face, leaving only the lower portion visible. A large basket suspended from a pole hangs before him, presumably containing captured rodents; its presence immediately establishes the subject’s occupation. The man leans forward slightly, his posture suggesting both weariness and focused attention on the interaction unfolding to his left.
To his left, two figures are positioned within a shadowed doorway. An older man, with deeply etched lines around his eyes and mouth, observes the central figure intently. He seems to be offering something – perhaps payment or a small reward – to a young boy standing before him. The child’s face is partially obscured by shadow, but he appears to be receiving the offered item with an expression that blends curiosity and perhaps a touch of apprehension. A barrel sits near the doorway, adding to the sense of domesticity and poverty associated with this location.
The artist utilizes strong contrasts between light and dark – a hallmark technique – to direct the viewer’s gaze and create a palpable atmosphere of somber realism. The deep shadows that envelop much of the scene contribute to a feeling of confinement and hardship. The background is sparsely rendered, suggesting an overgrown area beyond the immediate figures; foliage is indicated with quick, scratchy lines, creating a sense of depth without excessive detail.
Beyond the literal depiction of a ratcatcher at work, the drawing hints at broader social commentary. The presence of the older man and the child suggests a system of patronage or dependence – the boy likely relies on the older man for sustenance, while the ratcatcher provides a necessary service. This arrangement speaks to the economic realities of the time, where survival often depended on precarious relationships and menial labor. The overall tone is one of quiet dignity amidst hardship; despite their circumstances, the figures are portrayed with a certain stoicism that elevates them beyond mere caricature. The etching’s subtext explores themes of poverty, social hierarchy, and the essential role even the most humble professions play in maintaining order within a community.