Who painted Self-portrait?

Self-portrait was painted by Joseph Highmore in 1740.

Where can I see Self-portrait?

Self-portrait is held by National Gallery of Victoria.

What movement is Self-portrait?

Self-portrait is associated with Rococo painting.

Can I buy a print of Self-portrait?

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

Artwork

Self-portrait

Joseph Highmore , 1740

Self-portrait is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Joseph Highmore. It dates from 1740 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Victoria.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1740, this oil painting is a self-portrait by the English artist Joseph Highmore. The work shows the artist standing before a table laden with a palette and brushes, dressed in a blue jacket, white shirt, and a matching cap. It is currently part of the collection of the National Gallery of Victoria.

Subject & Meaning

Highmore presents himself directly to the viewer, his gaze meeting the eye without hesitation. The inclusion of his tools and studio setting underscores his professional identity, while the straightforward pose invites contemplation of the artist’s self-perception and the broader practice of self-representation in the eighteenth century.

Technique & Style

Executed in oil on canvas, the portrait employs a restrained palette dominated by blues and whites, allowing the figure to emerge from a relatively neutral background. The handling of light creates modest contrasts that model the form without dramatic chiaroscuro, reflecting Highmore’s measured approach to realism and portraiture.

History & Provenance

Since its completion, the painting has remained attributed to Highmore and entered the holdings of the National Gallery of Victoria, where it is displayed as part of the museum’s European art collection. Its provenance traces a straightforward path from the artist’s estate to public ownership, providing insight into the work’s reception over time.