Self-portrait in a fur cap: bust after 1630

This is an undated self-portrait bust in a fur cap, created using etching by an anonymous artist and held at the Rijksmuseum. During the 17th century, the Dutch Republic saw a surge in self-portraiture, reflecting a growing sense of individualism and the rise of the middle class. The choice of attire, like the fur cap, could indicate the artist’s status or aspiration for recognition. This etching invites us to consider the narratives we construct around identity and representation. There’s a certain vulnerability captured in the artist’s gaze, a quiet introspection that speaks to the universal experience of self-examination. While the artist is unknown, the work captures a certain intimacy. The use of etching allows for a depth of detail. The fur cap, likely a symbol of status, offers a glimpse into the cultural values of the time. What does it mean to be seen, and who gets to do the seeing? This self-portrait, despite its small size, asks big questions about identity, representation, and the stories we tell about ourselves.