Self-portrait 17th century

Editor: Here we have an intriguing 17th-century "Self-portrait," a drawing in pencil and charcoal. It gives me this feeling of… searching, you know? A face caught between thoughts, almost like the artist is trying to see into their own soul. What do you see in this piece? Curator: It whispers of vulnerability, doesn’t it? Imagine the artist, caught in a silent dialogue with their reflection, the charcoal mirroring the shadows of their inner world. There's a rawness to it – a far cry from the polished self-portraits of the era, almost like glimpsing the artist’s truest self before the mask of societal expectations is applied. Do you feel that directness, too? Editor: Absolutely. It’s far from flattering. There is nothing artificial, as if trying to please someone. Curator: Exactly! I find myself wondering what inner turmoil or inspiration propelled their hand. Was it painted during times of reflection or intense self-criticism, or simply a search to create oneself? Do you think the lack of detail around the eyes, adds to this sense of seeking something hidden? Editor: Definitely. The unfocused gaze creates an emotional depth, beyond a faithful recording. Curator: It's like looking at the raw blueprint of a person, before all the details of life are etched in. Beautiful, isn't it? It reminds me of staring into my own messy sketchbooks sometimes... the raw emotions rendered, before refinement or second thoughts kick in! Editor: I agree, it's beautiful in its honesty. It makes me think about how self-portraits can be more than just capturing a likeness; they're like little maps of the soul. Curator: Precisely! A testament of self exploration!