Self-portrait scowling c. 1631

This is Rembrandt van Rijn’s "Self-portrait scowling", made with etching in the Dutch Republic. Considered one of the greatest visual artists of his time, Rembrandt produced nearly 100 self-portraits in various media. Unlike formal portraiture which was commissioned, these images served as a personal project for the artist, exploring his own likeness and emotions. What is the public role of self-portraiture? Here, Rembrandt presents himself with a scowl. This challenges the conventions of self-representation at the time. This aesthetic choice reflects the growing artistic interest in capturing genuine, unidealized human emotion. To better understand the meaning of this etching, explore the social and institutional context that shaped Rembrandt’s artistic vision. What was life like in the Dutch Golden Age? What were the major cultural, social, and political movements of the time? Delving into archives, letters, and other historical sources will offer insight into the world of Rembrandt and the cultural significance of his self-portraits.