Rare Rembrandt counterproof of “The Goldweigher” achieves £22,100

A rare first-state counterproof etching by Rembrandt Harmensz. van Rijn (1606–1669), Jan Uytenbogaert, “The Goldweigher” (1639), has sold for £22,100 at Cheffins in Cambridge. Having been discovered in a plan chest in Norfolk, the 24 x 20.5cm print was purchased by an online bidder based in Germany.

Carrying a pre-sale estimate of £10,000 - £20,000, it was sold by a private, Cambridge-based collector, who had discovered the counterproof among his late father’s print collection. It is believed that it was probably acquired in Amsterdam during the mid-1970s.

The print is laid on paper with a Strasbourg lily watermark and represents a unique window into Rembrandt’s creative process. The counterproof, made from a freshly inked impression in the same orientation as the copper plate, allowed the artist to experiment with subsequent changes. In this impression, Rembrandt added subtle black-chalk details to Uytenbogaert’s hair, highlighting his meticulous attention to capturing Uytenbogaert’s likeness.

The subject, Jan Uytenbogaert (1608–1680), was a prominent tax collector in Amsterdam, and was a close friend and supporter of Rembrandt. Their relationship began, most likely, in Leiden, and deepened in Amsterdam when Uytenbogaert intervened to assist Rembrandt during a period of financial difficulty. This print, likely created as a gesture of gratitude, emphasizes the personal nature of the artist’s work.

Patricia Cross, Head of Old Master, 18th and 19th Century comments:

“We were delighted with the result of today’s sale. It was a privilege to offer such a unique piece to the open market and we saw global interest from collectors and institutions in the lead up to the auction. Today’s result shows that the market for Old Master works remains strong and rare works, such as this counterproof, which shed light on the artist’s working methods will always hold appeal to serious collectors and connoisseurs”  

The price reported is the total, inclusive of Buyers’ Premium and VAT.

Auction: The Fine Sale – 3rd December 2025

Location: Cheffins, Clifton House, 1-2 Clifton Road, Cambridge, UK, CB1 7EA

For further information contact the Fine Art Department on 01223 213343, [email protected]