Artwork

Youthful self-portrait

Youthful self-portrait, by Anton Graff, oil, 1765
Youthful self-portrait, by Anton Graff, oil, 1765

Youthful self-portrait is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Anton Graff. It dates from 1765 and is held in the collection of the Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden.

About this work

Overview

Youthful self-portrait is a 1765 oil painting by Anton Graff, a Swiss artist known for his portraits. The work is part of the Gemäldegalerie Alte Meister collection.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts Graff as a young man, seated and holding a paintbrush, conveying a sense of quiet contemplation. His direct gaze and serious expression suggest introspection.

Technique & Style

Rendered in the Rococo style, the portrait employs chiaroscuro to create depth and emphasize the subject's face. The contrast between light and dark areas draws the viewer's attention to Graff's features.

History & Provenance

Graff went on to paint notable figures, including Friedrich Schiller and Frederick the Great, establishing himself as a prominent portrait artist.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Anton Graff

Artist

Anton Graff

Anton Graff (18 November 1736 – 22 June 1813) was a Swiss portrait artist. Among his famous subjects were Friedrich Schiller, Christoph Willibald Gluck, Heinrich von Kleist, Frederick the Great, Friederike Sophie…