Self-Portrait c. 1778

Jean-Pierre Norblin de la Gourdaine created this self-portrait using etching and aquatint. This image resonates with the late 18th century's shifting ideas about the artist's role. It's no longer just about technical skill, but also about expressing inner vision. Norblin positions himself at an angle, framed by his own work, tools beside him. Born in Poland, Norblin trained in France, and eventually returned to Poland as court painter. The social conditions that shaped Norblin's art include the rise of academies, such as the Royal Academy in France, which standardized artistic training and taste. We can research the Academy’s archives for more information about Norblin's specific position within the institution and how he negotiated its expectations. In essence, Norblin’s self-portrait is more than just a personal depiction; it’s a statement about the artist's evolving role in society.