The artwork entitled “Self Portrait” is an oil on canvas painting by the Italian Baroque artist Guido Reni. Created during the period of 1603 to 1604, the painting measures 65 by 52 centimeters and falls within the genre of self-portrait. Emblematic of the Baroque art movement, this piece is currently held in a private collection.
In the artwork, Reni presents himself with directness and clarity against a subdued, dark background, which serves to highlight his figure and facial features. He gazes outward, engaging the viewer with a confident and composed expression. Reni’s clothing is characteristic of the period, with a white collar that stands stark against his black garment. Notably, he includes in the composition his hand holding a painter’s palette, which is adorned with an array of colors and a few brushes. This inclusion clearly identifies him as an artist and indicates his profession.
The use of light and shadow in the painting is subtle yet effective, creating a sense of three-dimensionality and emphasizing the contour of his face. The delicate rendering of Reni’s features, especially around the eyes and mouth, suggests not only his skill as a painter but also a sense of introspection, which contributes to the overall psychological depth of the portrait. By depicting himself with the tools of his trade, Guido Reni both asserts his identity as an artist and lays claim to the intellectual and creative spirit that defined the Baroque era.