Artwork

Self-portrait, Rijksmuseum

Self-portrait, Rijksmuseum, by Cornelis Troost, oil
Self-portrait, Rijksmuseum, by Cornelis Troost, oil

Self-portrait, Rijksmuseum is an oil painting by the Rococo painting artist Cornelis Troost. It is held in the collection of the Rijksmuseum.

About this work

Overview

Self-portrait, Rijksmuseum is a circular copper painting created by Cornelis Troost in 1800, characterized by its intimate scale and rich, luminous colors, thanks to the copper substrate.

Subject & Meaning

The portrait depicts the artist himself, Cornelis Troost, distinguished by curly white hair topped with a light-colored wig, and attired in a dark coat over a light shirt with lace cuffs, conveying a sense of subdued elegance.

Technique & Style

Executed in the Rococo style, the painting showcases Troost's attention to detail in rendering the textures of hair and fabric folds. The plain, dark background, coupled with the play of light on the copper surface, enhances the subject's prominence through subtle chiaroscuro effects.

History & Provenance

Created in 1800, the self-portrait is part of the Rijksmuseum's collection, though specific details of its acquisition history are not provided here.

Context

As a Rococo work, it reflects the period's emphasis on refinement and detailed ornamentation, yet the overall composition suggests a more restrained, personal expression.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Cornelis Troost

Artist

Cornelis Troost

Cornelis Troost (8 October 1696 – 7 March 1750) was a Dutch actor and painter from Amsterdam.

Rijksmuseum

Museum

Rijksmuseum

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