Who painted Selbstporträt?

Selbstporträt was painted by Unknown in 1775.

Where can I see Selbstporträt?

Selbstporträt is held by Tretyakov Gallery.

What movement is Selbstporträt?

Selbstporträt is associated with Rococo painting.

Artwork

Selbstporträt

Unknown , 1775

Selbstporträt is an unspecified painting by the Rococo painting artist Unknown. It dates from 1775 and is held in the collection of the Tretyakov Gallery. The work is a painted self‑portrait depicting a man in a dark jacket and hat, set against a deep, muted background that isolates the figure.

About this work

Overview

The work is a painted self‑portrait depicting a man in a dark jacket and hat, set against a deep, muted background that isolates the figure. The composition centers on the face, which is rendered with precise definition, while the gaze meets the viewer directly, conveying a solemn demeanor.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait presents the sitter, presumably the artist himself, in formal attire, emphasizing personal identity and introspection. The serious expression and direct eye contact suggest a contemplative stance, inviting viewers to consider the inner life or status of the individual within the austere setting.

Technique & Style

The painter employs meticulous brushwork to articulate the texture of the jacket and the shape of the hat, contrasting sharply with the enveloping darkness of the backdrop. Fine detailing on the facial features highlights the artist’s skill in rendering realism while maintaining a restrained palette that focuses attention on the subject.

Context

Created as a self‑portrait, the piece aligns with a tradition of artists using portraiture to explore self‑representation. The dark tonal scheme and emphasis on materiality reflect broader 19th‑century Russian painting trends, where chiaroscuro and careful observation were employed to convey psychological depth.