Artwork

Self-Portrait, Drawing

Self-Portrait, Drawing, by Georg Friedrich Schmidt, ink, 1752
Self-Portrait, Drawing, by Georg Friedrich Schmidt, ink, 1752

Self-Portrait, Drawing is an ink print by the Romanticist artist Georg Friedrich Schmidt. It dates from 1752 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

Inscription
Inscribed:in reverse, upper left in plate: g f Schmidt / se ipse fecit / aqua forti / 1752; lower left in plate: g f Schmidt se ipse fec; lower left in plate: L/; by later hand, lower left verso in graphite: 82851 ; by later hand, lower left verso in graphite: J134; by later hand, lower right verso in graphite: undeciphered; on mount, lower center verso in graphite: 2/470

About this work

Overview

Self-Portrait, Drawing is an etching and engraving on laid paper created by Georg Friedrich Schmidt in 1752. This black-and-white print showcases the artist's proficiency in printmaking techniques.

Subject & Meaning

The work depicts Schmidt in the act of drawing, highlighting his dedication to the graphic arts. The self-portrait captures the artist with short hair, a wide-brimmed hat, and a ruffled collar, hands resting on their chest.

Technique & Style

Schmidt employed sharp, detailed strokes to render fabric folds and facial features, characteristic of 18th-century Rococo-style prints. The textured, woven appearance of the paper complements the precise lines achieved through etching and engraving techniques.

History & Provenance

Created in 1752, this piece reflects Schmidt's dual expertise in printmaking and pastel painting during the mid-18th century. Specific provenance details are not provided.

Context

This work exemplifies the Rococo emphasis on intricate detail and everyday subjects. Schmidt's use of etching and engraving aligns with the period's printmaking practices, where acid and metal plates were used to achieve precise lines.

Legacy

While specific legacy details of Self-Portrait, Drawing are not provided, it contributes to the broader understanding of Schmidt's contribution to 18th-century German printmaking and the Rococo style.

Self-Portrait Drawing
Self-Portrait Drawing, Michael Lukas Leopold Willmann

Artist & collection

Portrait of Georg Friedrich Schmidt

Artist

Georg Friedrich Schmidt

Georg Friedrich Schmidt (24 January 1712 - 25 January 1775) was a German engraver, etcher and pastel painter, in the Rococo style.

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

Reviews

Frequently asked questions

Who painted Self-Portrait, Drawing?

Self-Portrait, Drawing was painted by Georg Friedrich Schmidt in 1752.

Where can I see Self-Portrait, Drawing?

Self-Portrait, Drawing is held by National Gallery of Art.

What movement is Self-Portrait, Drawing?

Self-Portrait, Drawing is associated with Romanticism.

Can I buy a print of Self-Portrait, Drawing?

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