Self-Portrait 1849 - 1852

This is Ferdinand von Wright’s self-portrait. Von Wright’s gaze meets ours, his palette and brushes held in his left hand, a walking stick casually in his right. Born in Finland, in 1822, von Wright belonged to a family of Swedish origin, ennobled in the 17th century. He was a renowned painter, known for his landscapes and depictions of nature, particularly birds. This self-portrait provides insight into the artist's perception of his own identity and status, particularly during a time of burgeoning national romanticism in Finland. The suit, the bow tie, the walking stick – all symbols of the bourgeois class. His gaze is steady, confident, yet the soft, almost melancholic lighting hints at the sensitivity and artistic temperament he likely associated with his identity. This is not just a portrait of an artist, but a statement about the artist's place in society. It’s a quiet reflection on self, class, and the role of the artist in a changing world.