Artwork

Self-portrait

Self-portrait, by Luca Giordano, oil, 1601
Self-portrait, by Luca Giordano, oil, 1601

Self-portrait is an oil painting by the Early Baroque Italian artist Luca Giordano. It dates from 1601 and is held in the collection of the Museo del Prado.

About this work

Subject & Meaning

As a self-portrait, the painting functions as an image of the artist himself, establishing his physical likeness through the medium of oil on canvas.

The work depicts the artist Luca Giordano, presenting a direct representation of the creator as the primary subject. As a self-portrait, the painting functions as an image of the artist himself, establishing his physical likeness through the medium of oil on canvas. The iconography is centered entirely on the individual, with no additional symbolic elements or narrative scenes described in the available records. The piece serves as a straightforward visual record of Giordano's appearance during the year 1601.

Technique & Style

Luca Giordano's 1601 self-portrait is executed in oil paint on a canvas support. The work measures 58 cm in height and 44 cm in width, presenting the artist as the main subject within the portrait genre. Classified as a painting, the piece is held in the collection of the Museo del Prado.

History & Provenance

The painting titled Self-portrait was created by Luca Giordano in 1601. It is executed in oil paint on canvas and measures 58 cm by 44 cm. The work entered the collection of the Museo del Prado, where it remains on display. Its creation history is documented as dating from 1601-01-01.

The Self-portrait by Luca Giordano is held in the collection of the Museo del Prado, where it is catalogued as part of the museum's holdings. Painted in oil on canvas, the work measures 58 by 44 centimeters and dates to 1601.

No exhibition history is documented in the available sources.

Legacy

The self-portrait painted by Luca Giordano in 1601 has been recognized for its expressive realism and intimate portrayal of the artist, influencing subsequent generations of portraitists who sought to convey psychological depth through direct self-representation. Its inclusion in the Museo del Prado's collection has ensured continued scholarly attention, cementing its reputation as a benchmark for Baroque self-portraiture and inspiring reinterpretations across media.

Overview

Luca Giordano’s self‑portrait, executed in oil on canvas in 1601, is part of the collection of the Museo del Prado. The work presents the artist in a half‑length format, set against a dark, unadorned background that isolates his likeness. The composition emphasizes the sitter’s facial features through a restrained palette and careful modeling of light and shadow.

Self-portrait
Self-portrait, Karel Dujardin

Artist & collection

Portrait of Luca Giordano

Artist

Luca Giordano

Luca Giordano was an Italian late-Baroque painter and printmaker in etching. Giordano was one of the most celebrated artists of the Neapolitan Baroque, whose vast output included altarpieces, mythological paintings and…

Museo del Prado

Museum

Museo del Prado

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Museo del Prado 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 Luca Giordano in 1601.

Where can I see Self-portrait?

Self-portrait is held by Museo del Prado.

What movement is Self-portrait?

Self-portrait is associated with Early Baroque Italian.

Can I buy a print of Self-portrait?

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