Self-portrait 1863

Henri Regnault painted this self-portrait showing himself holding a maulstick, a tool to steady the artist's hand, an object of support. We might consider this maulstick as a symbol of creative intention, as an instrument for achieving artistic precision, as a conductor's baton. The baton and the hand wielding it can be traced back through art history, not only as a scepter of command but as a symbol of control and, notably, of creative direction. It echoes through time, from ancient depictions of rulers holding staffs to portrayals of artists and musicians holding their tools. Think of the conductor's baton, guiding the orchestra, and the artist’s brush, directing the flow of paint. This recurring motif reveals the psychological desire to control one's destiny or creative output. It is a primal gesture, rooted in the subconscious need for mastery over oneself and the environment, continually re-emerging in our collective consciousness.