Artwork

Self Portrait

Self Portrait, by Charles Loring Elliott, oil, 1860
Self Portrait, by Charles Loring Elliott, oil, 1860

Self Portrait is an oil painting by the Realist artist Charles Loring Elliott. It dates from 1860 and is held in the collection of the Detroit Institute of Arts.

About this work

Overview

Charles Loring Elliott's Self Portrait, created in 1860, is an oil painting exemplifying the artist's skill in portraiture.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts Elliott, an American portrait painter, with a serious yet calm demeanor, distinguished by his gray beard and mustache, and dressed in formal attire with touches of color.

Technique & Style

Elliott employed chiaroscuro, a technique using strong contrasts between light and dark, to draw attention to his face, set against a dark background.

History & Provenance

Elliott moved to New York City in 1845 and was elected to the National Academy of Design in 1846. His Self Portrait is now part of the Detroit Institute of Arts collection.

Context

This work is associated with the Realism movement, reflecting Elliott's focus on realistic representation.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Charles Loring Elliott

Artist

Charles Loring Elliott

Charles Loring Elliott (1812 – 1868) was an American painter known for his portraits.