Portrait of Himself 1912

Curator: Here we have Timothy Cole’s "Portrait of Himself," created around 1912. It's an engraving, showcasing the artist in what looks like a contemplative mood. Editor: Contemplative is spot on! My first impression is a real sense of quiet dignity. The cross-hatching is gorgeous; it's almost as if he's captured light itself. But who was this artist, this Timothy Cole? Curator: Cole was a celebrated wood-engraver in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, famous for reproducing Old Master paintings. He played a pivotal role in bringing European art to American audiences through his magazine work. Editor: So, a translator of images. This portrait...it has a touch of old world craftsmanship to it. Something grounding in his technique...the labor! Did he see himself as carrying on some kind of tradition? Curator: Absolutely. Cole explicitly placed himself within the lineage of the great masters through his work. Reproducing their paintings via engraving was his method. This self-portrait perhaps signifies his arrival, his deserved place in that lineage. The print medium itself had specific connotations. Think about its affordability versus painting: a wider audience! Editor: So it's also democratic! Huh. It's funny, you get so lost in that gorgeous detail, the tiny lines... But he almost looks uncertain, you know? Self-portraits are always about creating a public persona. I wonder, did he have to present an image of solid artistic prowess at all times, despite maybe doubting himself? Curator: Well, the art world, especially back then, valorized expertise. Publicly revealing doubts was less acceptable. What strikes me is that Cole took on this role knowing he could be evaluated against the artists he admired! Editor: That's brave and foolhardy...but what better way to test yourself? I'm leaving here thinking about what it means to position yourself, and who you're using for scale, as it were. Curator: And I am reminded about the role reproduction can play. It is so often considered derivative, but what about access? A beautiful puzzle, thank you for sharing it.