Who painted Self portrait?

Self portrait was painted by Wallerant Vaillant in 1652.

Where can I see Self portrait?

Self portrait is held by Gemäldegalerie Berlin.

What movement is Self portrait?

Self portrait is associated with Dutch Golden Age.

Artwork

Self portrait

Wallerant Vaillant , 1652

Self portrait is a paint painting by the Dutch Golden Age artist Wallerant Vaillant. It dates from 1652 and is held in the collection of the Gemäldegalerie Berlin.

About this work

Overview

Created in 1652, this painted self‑portrait by Wallerant Vaillant exemplifies the Dutch Golden Age’s focus on individual representation. The work is part of the Gemäldegalerie Berlin’s holdings, offering a glimpse into the artist’s personal appearance and his engagement with contemporary portrait conventions.

Subject & Meaning

The sitter is Vaillant himself, depicted with a solemn expression. He wears a tall red turban crowned by a long feather that trails behind, a green‑brown robe, and a vivid red scarf around his neck. The attire, unusual for a Dutch portrait, may signal a fascination with exotic fashion or a desire to present a distinguished, cultured persona.

Technique & Style

The overall composition balances dramatic lighting with restrained color, reflecting the painter’s mastery of both oil technique and emerging print aesthetics.

Vaillant employs a pronounced chiaroscuro, contrasting sharply illuminated facial features against a dark, indistinct backdrop. The meticulous rendering of the feather—each fine strand catching light—demonstrates his skill in creating tactile realism. The overall composition balances dramatic lighting with restrained color, reflecting the painter’s mastery of both oil technique and emerging print aesthetics.

History & Provenance

After its execution, the portrait entered various private collections before being acquired by the Gemäldegalerie Berlin, where it remains on display. Its presence in a major German museum underscores Vaillant’s recognized role in the development of mezzotint and his broader contribution to 17th‑century Dutch art.

Artist & collection

Artist

Wallerant Vaillant

Wallerant Vaillant (30 May 1623 – 28 August 1677) was a painter of the Dutch Golden Age and one of the first artists to use the mezzotint technique, which he probably helped to develop.