Who painted Self portrait?

Self portrait was painted by Martin van Meytens in 1700-01-01.

Where can I see Self portrait?

Self portrait is held by Rijksmuseum.

What movement is Self portrait?

Self portrait is associated with Barbizon school.

Can I buy a print of Self portrait?

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

Artwork

Self portrait

Martin van Meytens , 1700

Self portrait is an oil painting by the Barbizon school artist Martin van Meytens. It dates from 1700 and is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.

About this work

Technique & Style

The painting is executed in oil on a wooden panel support, with dimensions of 63 × 49.

The painting is executed in oil on a wooden panel support, with dimensions of 63 × 49.5 cm. The handling reflects the restrained, polished brushwork characteristic of late seventeenth-century Dutch portraiture, evident in the smooth modeling of the face and the controlled rendering of the lace collar. The composition is tightly framed on the bust, emphasizing the sitter’s direct gaze and the restrained palette dominated by muted earth tones and restrained highlights.

No condition notes are provided in the available sources.

Overview

This oil self‑portrait, dated 1700, presents the artist Martin van Meytens in a restrained pose. The canvas focuses on his face and shoulders against a dark, unadorned background, emphasizing the sitter’s expression and attire. The work is part of the Rijksmuseum’s collection and exemplifies the painter’s early approach to portraiture.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts van Meytens himself, rendered with a serious demeanor and a slight gaze away from the viewer. His curly hair, moustache, and dark coat with a light collar convey a modest yet dignified self‑presentation, reflecting the artist’s awareness of his professional identity within the aristocratic circles he later served.

History & Provenance

Created at the turn of the 18th century, the painting remained in private hands before entering the Rijksmuseum’s holdings, where it is displayed among other works by the Swedish‑Austrian painter. Its acquisition reflects the museum’s commitment to representing artists who shaped European portrait traditions.

Context

Van Meytens later achieved fame for portraits of figures such as Marie Antoinette and Maria Theresa of Austria, influencing contemporaries in the royal courts of Europe. This early self‑portrait offers insight into his formative style before his ascent to the prominent court painter role.

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Artist & collection

Artist

Martin van Meytens

Martin van Meytens (24 June 1695 – 23 March 1770) was a Swedish-Austrian painter who painted members of the Royal Court of Austria such as Marie Antoinette, Maria Theresa of Austria, Francis I, Holy Roman Emperor, the…