Zelfportret van Ernst Willem Jan Bagelaar 1793

Ernst Willem Jan Bagelaar created this self-portrait using watercolor on ivory, a common practice for miniatures in the late 18th and early 19th centuries. Ivory, often sourced from elephant tusks, provided a smooth and luminous surface ideal for fine detail. The delicate application of watercolor allowed for subtle gradations of tone and color, capturing the artist's likeness with precision. Bagelaar's choice of materials and technique reflects the era's emphasis on refinement and craftsmanship. The miniature format itself speaks to a culture of portraiture accessible to a broader segment of society, not just the elite. While seemingly precious, the use of ivory connects to broader social issues of trade, colonialism, and consumption. Considering the material and its historical context allows us to appreciate the artistic skill involved, and the complex relationship between art, labor, and society.