Self-Portrait, Leaning Forward (Listening) (1628) by Rembrandt

Self-Portrait, Leaning Forward (Listening) - Rembrandt - 1628

Artwork Information

TitleSelf-Portrait, Leaning Forward (Listening)
ArtistRembrandt
Date1628
Art MovementBaroque

About Self-Portrait, Leaning Forward (Listening)

The artwork titled “Self-Portrait, Leaning Forward (Listening)” is a creation of the esteemed artist Rembrandt, completed in 1628. Defined by the characteristic drama and emotion of the Baroque period, this piece falls under the genre of self-portrait and tronie, a type of work depicting exaggerated facial expressions or characters. The artwork provides insight into the early development of Rembrandt’s stylistic approach and his masterful use of etching to convey a compelling and intimate self-representation.

In the artwork, Rembrandt presents himself with an informal intimacy that is typical of his self-portraiture. His face is slightly tilted, lean forward with an expression that appears attentive or inquisitive, as if engaged in listening intently. His eyes carry a weight of thought, deep-set beneath furrowed brows, while his hair is roughly sketched in swirling, energetic lines that contribute to the sense of movement and candidness within the piece. The etching technique is strikingly evident; a series of fine lines and cross-hatching create both texture and shadow, bringing depth and life to the artist’s features. The lighting, though limited in a monochromatic work, seems carefully considered to sculpt the face and enable a play of light and dark, enhancing the dramatic impact that is emblematic of Baroque artwork. This self-portrait captures not just the artist’s likeness, but also a moment of emotion and psychological presence, inviting viewers to ponder the mind and mood behind the depicted expression.

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