Artwork

Self-portrait

Self-portrait, by Pietro Benvenuti, unspecified, 1837
Self-portrait, by Pietro Benvenuti, unspecified, 1837

Self-portrait is an unspecified painting by the Biedermeier artist Pietro Benvenuti. It dates from 1837 and is held in the collection of the Uffizi Gallery.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1837, this oil painting is a self-portrait by the Italian artist Pietro Benvenuti. The work is part of the collection of the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, where it is displayed among other historic portraits.

Subject & Meaning

Benvenuti presents himself in a straightforward manner, dressed in a black jacket, white shirt and a red vest. His neutral expression and direct gaze engage the viewer, suggesting a professional self‑presentation rather than an emotive narrative.

Technique & Style

The artist employs chiaroscuro to model the figure, using contrasts of light and shadow to give the face and clothing a three‑dimensional quality. A plain gray background isolates the sitter, emphasizing the subtle tonal variations and the brush held in his right hand.

History & Provenance

Since its completion in the late 1830s, the portrait has remained in the public domain, eventually entering the Uffizi’s holdings where it contributes to the museum’s representation of 19th‑century Italian painters.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Pietro Benvenuti

Artist

Pietro Benvenuti

Pietro Benvenuti (1769–1844) was an artist, born in Arezzo.

Uffizi Gallery

Museum

Uffizi Gallery

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Uffizi Gallery open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.