A Standing Hurdy-Gurdy Player ('Polander standing with Arms folded')

Presumably in reference to the high cap which may have been considered of Polish origin, this little print has long been called 'A Polander with folded Arms', a title either invented or adopted by Bartsch. Upon closer examination, the musical instrument tucked under the man's are has been recognised as a hurdy-gurdy, thus identifying him as roaming street musician, a popular subject in 17th century Golden Age art and one of particular interest to Rembrandt. Hurdy-gurdy players appear in three other etchings within his oeuvre, and he portrayed these and other itinerant performers and beggars, who were generally looked upon with contempt and suspicion, with attention and sympathy.