Aristotle with a Bust of Homer

The painting shows Aristotle in a dark robe with a white sleeve, standing in three-quarter view to the right, his gaze directed toward a pale marble bust of Homer on a low surface to the left, illuminated by a warm light. A heavy gold chain drapes across Aristotle’s chest, contrasting with the dark clothing and the luminous sleeves, while the background remains deep and subdued. The work demonstrates Rembrandt’s mastery of chiaroscuro and painterly brushwork, using a restrained palette of earth tones and whites to create a moody, sculptural contrast of form and light.