Self-portrait

Executed in oil, the work employs a pronounced chiaroscuro, juxtaposing illuminated facial features against a deep, muted background. This contrast creates a three‑dimensional effect, emphasizing the contours of the head while imparting a quiet, intimate atmosphere.

After its completion, the painting entered the holdings of the Uffizi Gallery, where it remains on display. Its acquisition reflects the museum’s broader interest in 19th‑century European portraiture and the inclusion of women artists in its collection.

Ribbing was linked to the Düsseldorf School, a movement known for its precise draftsmanship and careful modeling of light. Her broader oeuvre focused on portraiture and domestic genre scenes, often placing figures within familial settings, a practice evident in the personal tone of this self‑portrait.