Artwork
Self-Portrait
Self-Portrait is a chalk drawing by the Baroque artist Peter, Sir Lely. It dates from 1641 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:lower left illegible signature as noted by Sotheby's: P.L.; on verso inscriptions in pen & brown ink covered by mount (transcribed by Sotheby's as "d" and "026")
About this work
Overview
This drawing is a self-portrait by Sir Peter Lely, created around 1641. It is executed in black chalk with touches of red chalk on buff laid paper.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait depicts a man with curly hair and a high collar, likely the artist himself, with his face turned slightly to the side and hands near his chest.
Technique & Style
Lely employed simple, expressive strokes to capture light and shadow, focusing on the subject's face and clothing, a characteristic approach to quick sketches of the period.
Context
This drawing is associated with the Baroque period, a time when artists frequently used chalk to create detailed, expressive portraits.
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