Selvportræt som ung. Brystbillede i trekvartprofil mod højre 1765 - 1768

Jens Juel created this self-portrait as a young man using graphite on paper. The artist presents himself in a three-quarter view, a pose that carries echoes of classical portraiture and suggests a self-awareness beyond mere representation. Consider the soft cravat he wears; it’s a motif that reappears across centuries, from ancient Roman sculptures to later Renaissance paintings. This wrapping of the neck, seemingly simple, evokes ideas of protection, of self-containment, and perhaps even restraint. Think of the many portraits where a similar piece of cloth appears—sometimes tight, sometimes loose—each instance carrying the weight of its era's social and psychological nuances. The gaze, direct yet gentle, hints at the complex dance between the artist's inner world and his outward presentation. This introspective quality serves as a powerful force, engaging viewers on a subconscious level, inviting us to contemplate the cyclical journey of self-expression. This is not just a portrait; it’s a mirror reflecting the ever-evolving image of the self.