Who painted Self-portrait?

Self-portrait was painted by Simon Vouet in 1626.

Where can I see Self-portrait?

Self-portrait is held by Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon.

What movement is Self-portrait?

Self-portrait is associated with French Classical Baroque.

Can I buy a print of Self-portrait?

Museum-quality prints of Self-portrait are available made-to-order from Artifact World Gallery.

Artwork

Self-portrait

Simon Vouet , 1626

Self-portrait is an oil painting by the French Classical Baroque artist Simon Vouet. It dates from 1626 and is held in the collection of the Museum of Fine Arts of Lyon.

About this work

Overview

This oil painting on canvas presents the French painter Simon Vouet depicting himself. Executed around 1626–1627, the work dates from his Roman period, when he was under the patronage of Pope Urban VIII and Cardinal Del Monte. The portrait now belongs to the collection of the Musée des Beaux-Arts in Lyon.

Subject & Meaning

The canvas serves as a personal representation of Vouet, offering insight into his self-perception during a formative stage of his career. The intimate nature of the image suggests it may have been intended as a private token, possibly presented to his wife, Virginia Vezzi, shortly after their marriage in 1626.

Technique & Style

Rendered in oil, the portrait reflects the early Baroque sensibilities that Vouet absorbed in Rome. The handling of light and the subtle modeling of facial features demonstrate his mastery of chiaroscuro, while the composition balances a restrained pose with a dignified presence, characteristic of the period’s portraiture.

History & Provenance

Created while Vouet was still residing in Rome, the painting entered his personal collection before he returned to France at the summons of Louis XIII in 1627. Over the centuries it passed through various hands before being acquired by the Musée des Beaux-Arts de Lyon, where it remains on display.

Context

Vouet’s Roman sojourn placed him at the heart of the Catholic artistic revival, exposing him to the works of Caravaggio and the Carracci. This environment informed his approach to portraiture, merging Italian dramatic effects with his French background, a synthesis that would later influence French painting upon his return.

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Artist & collection

Artist

Simon Vouet

Simon Vouet (French pronunciation: ; 9 January 1590 – 30 June 1649) was a French painter who studied and rose to prominence in Italy before being summoned by Louis XIII to serve as Premier peintre du Roi in France.