Who painted Self-Portrait?

Self-Portrait was painted by Lié Louis Périn-Salbreux in 1794.

Where can I see Self-Portrait?

Self-Portrait is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Self-Portrait?

Self-Portrait is associated with Neoclassicism.

Artwork

Self-Portrait

Lié Louis Périn-Salbreux , 1794

Self-Portrait is an unspecified painting by the Neoclassicist artist Lié Louis Périn-Salbreux. It dates from 1794 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This life-sized self‑portrait by Lié Louis Périn presents the artist in a dark coat, his face illuminated against a dim background.

About this work

Overview

This life-sized self‑portrait by Lié Louis Périn presents the artist in a dark coat, his face illuminated against a dim background. Unlike the miniature works for which he was known, the painting captures fine details such as wrinkles and subtle shadows, giving the impression that the sitter is emerging from the canvas.

Subject & Meaning

The work portrays Périn himself, unmediated by a patron’s request. By choosing to depict his own likeness at full scale, the artist asserts his personal identity and showcases his technical competence without the constraints of a commissioned composition.

Technique & Style

Executed with a chiaroscuro approach, the painting contrasts a candle‑like light on the face with deep surrounding darkness. The larger format permits broader brushwork than his typical miniature pieces, allowing nuanced modeling of flesh and fabric while retaining the precision that defined his earlier small‑scale portraits.

History & Provenance

Born to a cloth‑manufacturing family in Rheims, Périn relocated to Paris to develop a career as a miniaturist, quickly gaining favor among the city’s aristocracy. This full‑size self‑portrait was created later in his career, offering a rare example of his work beyond the handheld format for which he is primarily remembered.