Self-Portrait Of The Artist 

Benjamin West’s self-portrait is made with oil paints on canvas, a traditional choice for artists of his time. West’s application of paint emphasizes the textures of his clothing, from the soft sheen of his jacket to the crisp linen of his cravat. Look closely, and you’ll see the subtle brushstrokes that build up form and create depth, especially in the shadows of his face and the folds of his garments. The artist’s method of applying paint, in layers to achieve luminosity, reflects the influence of the Old Masters, who regarded painting as a skilled craft requiring years of dedicated practice. The act of painting itself was labor-intensive, involving the grinding of pigments, mixing of mediums, and stretching of canvas, each step requiring time and expertise. By mastering these techniques, West elevated himself within a social hierarchy that valued refinement and skill. In this light, West’s mastery of his materials and his artistic skill challenges the idea that fine art exists in a realm separate from the world of craft and labor.