The artwork titled “Self-portrait with Beret and Gold Chain” was created by the renowned artist Rembrandt in the year 1631. This self-portrait is executed in oil on board and measures 70 by 57 centimeters. It is an exemplar of the Baroque period, a time characterized by dramatic expression and clarity in detail, and fits within the genres of self-portrait and tronie, the latter being a type of Dutch Golden Age painting featuring exaggerated facial expressions or characters dressed in costume.
In this self-portrait, Rembrandt depicts himself with a confident gaze directed toward the viewer, capturing a moment of self-reflection and presentation. He wears a dark beret atop his curly hair and a cloak adorned with a gold chain, which indicates his status and success as an artist. The use of chiaroscuro—the contrast of light and darkness—is masterfully employed to highlight the textures of his skin, the softness of the beret, and the intricate details of the gold chain. His facial expression conveys a sense of assurance and contemplativeness, inviting viewers to engage with the artist’s persona.
The warm earth tones and the nuanced interplay of light and shadow are typical of Rembrandt’s style, demonstrating his skill in rendering the complexities of human features and costume with a lifelike verisimilitude. The artwork stands as a testimony to Rembrandt’s introspective nature and his mastery of the art of self-portraiture.
