Zelfportret van Cornelis van Noorde 1765

This is a self-portrait, etched by Cornelis van Noorde, sometime in the late 18th century. It offers a glimpse into the artist's world through a network of fine, deliberate lines. The composition, predominantly vertical, is anchored by the artist's figure, whose gaze meets ours directly. Notice how Van Noorde uses the etching technique to create texture and depth. The lines are not merely descriptive; they build a structural framework. The artist’s pose is carefully constructed, with one hand gesturing towards his work, inviting us into a dialogue about the nature of art itself. The portraits in the background and the tools in the foreground speak to the artistic environment that Van Noorde inhabits. These elements act as signs, creating a visual language about the artist's identity and profession. In its totality, the portrait is a study in contrasts, highlighting the intersection between the artist, his tools, and the world he seeks to represent.