Artwork

Self-portrait by artificial light

Self-portrait by artificial light, by Jens Juel, oil, 1762
Self-portrait by artificial light, by Jens Juel, oil, 1762

Self-portrait by artificial light is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Jens Juel. It dates from 1762 and is held in the collection of the Statens Museum for Kunst.

About this work

Overview

Self-portrait by artificial light is an oil painting created in 1762 by Jens Juel, a prominent Danish portrait painter of the 18th century.

Subject & Meaning

The painting depicts Juel as a young man seated at a cluttered desk, holding a pen and paper, dressed in a brown jacket with white cuffs. The scene conveys a sense of the artist at work, with the surrounding objects suggesting his profession.

Technique & Style

The artist employed chiaroscuro to dramatic effect, with a light source from the left casting deep shadows on the right side of his face, adding depth to the image. This technique is characteristic of Juel's work and aligns with the Rococo movement.

History & Provenance

Juel is known for his extensive portraiture, with a significant collection of his works housed at Frederiksborg Castle, highlighting his importance as a Danish painter.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Jens Juel

Artist

Jens Juel

Jens Juel (12 May 1745 – 27 December 1802) was a Danish painter, primarily known for his many portraits, of which the largest collection is on display at Frederiksborg Castle.