Self Portrait 1886

Julius Leblanc Stewart created this self-portrait with oil on canvas in 1886. It’s a small and intimate work, likely a gift "to Mrs. Thieriat," as the inscription suggests. Stewart was an American expatriate painter who spent most of his career in Paris. His work often depicted the leisure activities of the upper class, reflecting the social circles in which he moved. This self-portrait presents Stewart as a refined and cultured gentleman. The dark suit, neatly groomed beard, and direct gaze convey an image of respectability and self-assurance, common in institutional portraiture of the time. Born into a wealthy family, Stewart was able to pursue his artistic ambitions without financial constraints, and thus he epitomized the image of a successful artist in the late 19th century. To understand Stewart's work more fully, scholars often consult exhibition reviews, letters, and biographies that shed light on the artistic and social contexts in which he operated. His paintings offer valuable insights into the cultural values and social hierarchies of his time.