Still Life with Self Portrait 

Emil Carlsen, a Danish-American artist, created this intriguing still life, which subtly incorporates his self-portrait, during a period marked by significant shifts in artistic expression. Carlsen, born in Copenhagen, lived most of his life in the United States. Although he was an American citizen, his still life paintings reflect a cultural dialogue between Europe and America. His work also grapples with the traditional art forms by adopting a unique intimate perspective. "Still Life with Self Portrait" depicts a collection of objects such as bowls, bottles, and eggs, rendered in muted tones. These commonplace items are arranged to also form a reflection of the artist himself. The artist's presence is registered through reflection on the glass. The soft lighting evokes a contemplative mood, inviting viewers to reflect on the relationship between the artist and the world he inhabits. The objects here can be seen as stand-ins for elements of Carlsen's own identity. This painting transforms what might seem like an ordinary domestic scene into a profound exploration of selfhood and representation.