Zelfportret van Dirck de Bray 1645 - 1694

This is Dirck de Bray’s self-portrait, an etching measuring just 84 by 68 mm. The image, framed within a delicate, rectangular border, is a study in contrasts, where the artist's features emerge from a play of light and shadow. De Bray's face is delicately rendered, with soft, flowing lines defining his curly hair and subtle facial details. The use of etching allows for a remarkable level of detail. Note the texture in his hair and the slight shadow that defines his cheekbones. The line work creates a sense of depth, even though it’s a small, essentially two-dimensional work. De Bray was interested in representing himself, but it’s also about the formal qualities of the work. The careful use of line, tone and texture combine in the creation of an intriguing portrait, where every stroke contributes to the overall impact. It challenges fixed meanings of representation, asking us to consider how artists define themselves.