The artwork, titled “Self Portrait as a Young Man,” was created by Gian Lorenzo Bernini in 1623. This oil painting on canvas is a fine exemplar of the Baroque art movement and measures 38 by 30 centimeters. Categorized as a self-portrait, it is currently housed in the Borghese Gallery in Rome, Italy.
In the artwork, Bernini captures a youthful depiction of himself with meticulous attention to detail. The lighting and shadowing emphasize the three-dimensionality of his face, exhibiting his mastery in portraying depth and realism. His expression appears contemplative, with piercing eyes that seem to engage directly with the viewer. The dark background adds contrast, bringing the focus squarely onto Bernini’s visage, thus highlighting his nuanced brushwork and the rich texture of the paint. The choice of attire, featuring a crisp white collar against darker garments, further augments the portrait’s contrast and depth, representative of the Baroque aesthetic.
