The artwork titled “Self-Portrait, Drawing at a Window” is an etching by the distinguished artist Rembrandt, created in the year 1648. This self-portrait is an exemplar of the Baroque art movement, characterized by its emotional depth and energy. Currently, the piece finds its residence at the Städel Museum in Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
As for the artwork, it presents a scene with Rembrandt himself intimately engaged in the act of drawing. He is positioned at a window, the source of natural light, which illuminates his face and hands, highlighting the features with great detail and creating a contrast with the darker areas of the composition. The etching showcases a candid moment in the artist’s life, giving viewers a glimpse into his work environment. Rembrandt is depicted wearing a hat and a formal collar, which was typical of the era, adding a touch of elegance to the otherwise personal and informal scene of an artist at work. The skillful use of hatching and cross-hatching techniques creates a tactile sense of texture and depth throughout the artwork, illustrating Rembrandt’s mastery in manipulating light and shadow to imbue his work with a sense of realism and presence.
