Artwork
Self-Portrait with a Hat
Self-Portrait with a Hat is an unspecified painting by the Impressionist artist Ottilie Roederstein. It dates from 1904 and is held in the collection of the Städel Museum.
About this work
Overview
Created in 1904 by Ottilie Roederstein, a German‑Swiss painter active at the turn of the 20th century, this canvas presents a self‑portrait that now resides in the collection of the Städel Museum. The work captures the artist in a poised stance, her gaze meeting the viewer, and reflects the personal confidence of a woman establishing herself in a male‑dominated art world.
Subject & Meaning
The portrait shows Roederstein wearing a hat, a crisp white coat, and a black bow tie, her short, curly hair framing a serious expression. The direct eye contact suggests self‑assertion, while the attire—reminiscent of professional dress—may allude to her contemporary role as a pioneering female artist, paralleling the emergence of women in other professional fields.
Technique & Style
Executed in an impressionist manner, the painting balances loose brushwork with careful rendering of textures such as the coat’s fabric and the hat’s brim. A muted green background recedes behind the figure, while subtle chiaroscuro modeling creates volume, giving the portrait a three‑dimensional presence despite its relatively flat surface.
History & Provenance
Since its creation, the canvas has been part of the Städel Museum’s holdings, where it is displayed as part of the institution’s representation of early 20th‑century European painting. The museum’s acquisition reflects its commitment to preserving works by women artists who contributed to the evolving visual language of the period.
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Artist & collection
Artist
Ottilie Wilhelmine Roederstein (22 April 1859 – 26 November 1937) was a German-Swiss painter. She was the long-time companion of Elisabeth Winterhalter, one of the first female doctors in Germany.
