Artwork
Self-Portrait
Self-Portrait is a chalk drawing by the Baroque artist Peter, Sir Lely. It dates from 1641 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
Overview
This drawing is a self-portrait by Sir Peter Lely, created around 1641. It is executed in black chalk with touches of red chalk on buff laid paper.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait depicts a man with curly hair and a high collar, likely the artist himself, with his face turned slightly to the side and hands near his chest.
Technique & Style
Lely employed simple, expressive strokes to capture light and shadow, focusing on the subject's face and clothing, a characteristic approach to quick sketches of the period.
Context
This drawing is associated with the Baroque period, a time when artists frequently used chalk to create detailed, expressive portraits.
Artist & collection
