Artwork

Self-portrait

Self-portrait, by Gerard ter Borch, oil, 1668
Self-portrait, by Gerard ter Borch, oil, 1668

Self-portrait is an oil painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Gerard ter Borch. It dates from 1668 and is held in the collection of the Mauritshuis.

About this work

The painting depicts a man with long, curly hair and a mustache, dressed in a black cloak with a white collar and a patterned scarf.

The painting depicts a man with long, curly hair and a mustache, dressed in a black cloak with a white collar and a patterned scarf. He wears black shoes with bows and white stockings. The background is dark, with a lighter area on the floor where the man stands.

The man's attire and hairstyle suggest a formal or professional setting, possibly from the 17th century. The artist's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth and dimensionality in the painting.

The artist's attention to detail and use of lighting create a sense of realism in the portrait. If you're interested in learning more about the artist behind this work, you can explore the art of Gerard ter Borch.

Overview

This oil painting is a self-portrait by Gerard ter Borch, a Dutch painter active during the Dutch Golden Age.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts the artist with formal attire, including a black cloak and white collar, set against a dark background. His detailed depiction suggests a professional or formal setting, characteristic of 17th-century portraiture.

Technique & Style

Ter Borch's use of chiaroscuro creates a sense of depth, while his attention to detail and lighting achieves a realistic representation. The painting exemplifies the artist's skill in capturing texture and dimension.

History & Provenance

Created in 1668, the self-portrait is now part of the Mauritshuis collection. Ter Borch's work influenced contemporaries like Gabriel Metsu and Johannes Vermeer, although his later impact was eclipsed by Vermeer's.

Portrait of Jacob de Graeff (1642-90), in the uniform of an officer
Portrait of Jacob de Graeff (1642-90), in the uniform of an officer, Gerard ter Borch

Artist & collection

Portrait of Gerard ter Borch

Artist

Gerard ter Borch

Gerard ter Borch (Dutch:; December 1617 – 8 December 1681), also known as Gerard Terburg (Dutch: ), was a Dutch Golden Age painter mainly of genre subjects.

Mauritshuis

Museum

Mauritshuis

Continue through works from the same source collection.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Mauritshuis open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.

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Frequently asked questions

Who painted Self-portrait?

Self-portrait was painted by Gerard ter Borch in 1668.

Where can I see Self-portrait?

Self-portrait is held by Mauritshuis.

What movement is Self-portrait?

Self-portrait is associated with Dutch Golden Age.

Can I buy a print of Self-portrait?

Museum-quality prints of Self-portrait are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.