Self Portrait with his Wife Sanneke van Bommel and their two Children 1761 - 1784

Hendrik Spilman painted this self-portrait with his wife and two children using oil on canvas. The composition centers on the family's faces, arranged in a gentle pyramid, creating a sense of intimacy. Soft, diffused light bathes the figures, emphasizing their delicate features and the textures of their clothing. The painting's structure invites a deeper reading. Spilman includes himself, his wife Sanneke, and their two children. Through this collection, he seems to capture the essence of his domestic world. The inclusion of a doll and a cat are not mere decoration, but function as signs carrying cultural significance. The doll signifies childhood and innocence, while the cat symbolizes domesticity and affection. Spilman's decision to portray himself alongside his family challenges traditional portraiture norms. It reflects a shift towards celebrating bourgeois values and familial bonds during the 18th century. The painting operates as a network of visual signs, inviting viewers to decode its layers of meaning. It is a testament to the enduring power of art to reflect and shape our understanding of self, family, and society.