Who painted Self-portrait by artificial light?

Self-portrait by artificial light was painted by Jens Juel in 1762.

Where can I see Self-portrait by artificial light?

Self-portrait by artificial light is held by Statens Museum for Kunst.

What movement is Self-portrait by artificial light?

Self-portrait by artificial light is associated with Rococo painting.

Can I buy a print of Self-portrait by artificial light?

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

Artwork

Self-portrait by artificial light

Jens Juel , 1762

Self-portrait by artificial light is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Jens Juel. It dates from 1762 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst.

About this work

Subject & Meaning

This self-portrait functions as a demonstration of artistic prowess and self-awareness, positioning the artist as both subject and observer.

The painting depicts the artist Jens Juel seated before a dark background, illuminated by the soft glow of an artificial light source. The controlled lighting emphasizes the contours of his face and the texture of his skin, underscoring the technical skill required to render such subtleties in oil paint.

This self-portrait functions as a demonstration of artistic prowess and self-awareness, positioning the artist as both subject and observer. The choice of artificial light, rather than natural daylight, highlights Juel’s engagement with contemporary portrait practices and his mastery of chiaroscuro within a confined, introspective space.

Technique & Style

Executed in 1762, this self-portrait by Jens Juel is an oil painting on canvas. The work measures 57 cm in height and 49.5 cm in width. As a portrait genre piece, it depicts the artist himself and is currently held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst.

The painting has been featured in exhibitions focusing on Danish classics, including those highlighting Juel alongside contemporaries such as Nicolai Abildgaard and Christoffer Wilhelm Eckersberg.

History & Provenance

Jens Juel painted this self‑portrait in 1762, executing it in oil on canvas. The work entered the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst, where it remains today. Apart from its current location, the sources do not record earlier owners, a specific commission, or subsequent transfers; the painting’s exhibition history includes a showing in the 2012–2013 show “Fire danske klassikere” featuring Abildgaard, Juel, Eckersberg and Thorvaldsen.

The painting is held by Statens Museum for Kunst in Copenhagen. Its inventory/accession is not specified in the provided sources.

It was included in the exhibition Fire danske klassikere: Nicolai Abildgaard, Jens Juel, Christoffer Wilhelm Eckersberg og Bertel Thorvaldsen, which focused on Danish classical artists including Juel.

Overview

Self-portrait by artificial light is an oil painting created in 1762 by Jens Juel, a prominent Danish portrait painter of the 18th century.

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Artist & collection

Artist

Jens Juel

Jens Juel (12 May 1745 – 27 December 1802) was a Danish painter, primarily known for his many portraits, of which the largest collection is on display at Frederiksborg Castle.