The Baby Walker

Rembrandt van Rijn, c. 1646

Behind the two sketches of the same man, one seen standing, the other seated, Rembrandt added a woman teaching a toddler to walk using a baby walker. Learning how to walk is a frequently recurring 17th-century metaphor for practice: a subtle reminder from Rembrandt to his pupils that they can master their craft only through constant practice.

  • Artwork typeprint
  • Object numberRP-P-OB-427
  • Dimensionsheight 195 mm x width 128 mm
  • Physical characteristicsets met plaattoon

Discover more

more by Rembrandt van Rijn

The Night Watch Militia Company of District II under the Command of Captain Frans Banninck Cocq

The Night Watch Militia Company of District II under the Command of Captain Frans Banninck Cocq

Rembrandt van Rijn, 1642

Self-portrait

Self-portrait

Rembrandt van Rijn, c. 1628

Isaac and Rebecca, Known as ‘The Jewish Bride’

Isaac and Rebecca, Known as ‘The Jewish Bride’

Rembrandt van Rijn, c. 1665 - c. 1669

Self-portrait as the Apostle Paul

Self-portrait as the Apostle Paul

Rembrandt van Rijn, 1661

The Sampling Officials of the Amsterdam Drapers’ Guild, Known as ‘The Syndics’

The Sampling Officials of the Amsterdam Drapers’ Guild, Known as ‘The Syndics’

Rembrandt van Rijn, 1662

Portrait of a Woman, Probably Maria Trip (1619-1683)

Portrait of a Woman, Probably Maria Trip (1619-1683)

Rembrandt van Rijn, 1639