Portrait of a Young Man (Self-Portrait) 1615

This self-portrait, created in 1615 by the renowned Italian artist Gian Lorenzo Bernini, is a striking example of early Baroque portraiture. The young Bernini, only 17 years old at the time, captures his own likeness with remarkable detail, emphasizing the subtle nuances of his youthful features. The use of charcoal on paper creates a sense of immediacy and intimacy, allowing the viewer to connect with the artist's youthful vulnerability. This drawing is a testament to Bernini's artistic genius, foreshadowing his later mastery of sculpture and architecture. The intimate scale of the work and the subtle shading highlight the emerging talent of one of the most celebrated artists of the Baroque era.